It all started with a pin prick rash

A purple pin prick rash pointed to a more serious issue

One day when I was changing Rian’s nappy, I lifted the back of his legs and found a purple pin prick rash, as well as a couple of rashes on his chest. I thought he had meningitis and my heart sank.

My mum came over to look after my two other sons – Riza and Riko – whilst my dad and I took Rian to the doctor who sent us straight to the hospital for tests.

An hour later, we were called in by the doctor who looked concerned, which frightened me. He told us that Rian’s liver and spleen were enlarged and that they suspected he had blood cancer.

I went numb when I heard those words and I sat crying with my dad. I would have taken Rian’s place in a heartbeat. I didn’t want to see my son suffer.

Treatment began immediately

We started treatment immediately and spent 6 weeks in hospital, where Rian had a Hickman line fitted after he suffered terrible infections from failed ports. He had numerous lumbar punctures, steroid treatment and chemotherapy which made him exhausted and unwell.

It’s the most awful experience, watching your baby boy in pain and knowing that there is nothing you can do. Rian however, would watch me and smile and take comfort in my presence.

Looking forward to the end of treatment

Rian is due to finish his chemotherapy at the end of August and his line will be removed at the beginning of September. I am so proud of Rian and cannot thank the hospital staff and my family enough for all their support during this difficult time.

End of Treatment Bells are placed into hospitals for children and adults with cancer to ring after their gruelling treatment.