British comedy writer and actress Caroline Aherne sadly died on Saturday, July 2nd, after suffering lung cancer linked to her retinoblastoma diagnosis as a child. Caroline is best known as creator of Mrs. Merton and the Royle Family TV shows. Her humour brought laughter to millions around the world, but she also used it to stay sane during her multiple cancer battles.
Today we celebrate Rati, the beautiful, bright, bubbly butterfly who came so briefly into our lives, changed us all so dramatically and inspired the foundation of WE C Hope. Ultimately, expert care came too late and we could not save her life. Rati had plans of her own though. She taught us to see and hear and understand the needs of families like her own, and she challenged us to do something to help change their experience of retinoblastoma.
“I have retinoblastoma”. Medical professionals would correct me – “you had retinoblastoma – now you are cancer-free”. But am I really free from cancer?
So many days I feel I am banging my head against a wall, watching children die who could have been saved with clear information, simple surgery and emotional support. But the knowledge of how life could be made better for each child, family and survivor is a strong motivational pull. The suffering that can be mitigated with relatively small resources. Somehow when I think I have no more energy, I mine a new seam from within, and from the encouragement and kindness of others, and I move forward, one step at a time.
Looking forward to Daisy Fund’s Africa Bush Trek marking Childhood Cancer Month 2014, Abby White recalls her 2005 adventure through Tanzania’s captivating wilderness. An epic experience raising funds that bring hope of life and sight saving care to children with eye cancer and their families.
11 years ago, a new baby girl was born in Botswana. Four short years later, retinoblastoma claimed her life. Her name means love, and today, her legacy continues to build hope for other children around the world.
