Sarah loves dancing, singing, and above all, unicorns. While we wish her childhood was only filled with the joys of her favourite things, unfortunately, a few months ago her family received the heartbreaking news. At just 12 years old, Sarah is now battling leukemia for the 5th time.
During an unimaginable time for any family, Starlight Canada aimed to make her days a little brighter. While her family adjusted to the all too familiar chemotherapy treatments, a care package full of some of her favourite things – including a cozy unicorn blanket/sweater that she wore for an entire day straight – helped her know she’s not alone.
Just a couple months after her fourth relapse, Sarah’s 12th birthday was coming up. Knowing how difficult this birthday would be with both the isolation of COVID-19 and recent news of her health, friends and family worked hard to spread the news in hopes that people would send her cards, gifts, well wishes, and most importantly, support. Thousands of cards flooded in, and her community even went above and beyond in a special birthday parade drive-by at her house to help cheer her up.
As a close friend of Sarah’s through the years, Starlight Canada knew we had to get involved. After asking her mom, Gillian, what was on Sarah’s birthday wish list, we safely delivered a chocolate fondue fountain and a unicorn balloon (of course!) to help make the day extra special.
The gifts didn’t stop there. Designed to bring happiness to isolated children during COVID-19, Sarah also received our Mega Play From Hospital To Home Pack filled with toys just in time for the holidays and as the perfect pick-me-up before her next hospital admission. She even brought the Playmobil set and cuddly Starlight Bear with her to the hospital to help keep her busy and provide a little bit of comfort.
“Starlight has been one of the best supporters that Sarah has had over the past 8 years,” Gillian shared. “You have been there for all five of her cancer diagnoses and have put many smiles on her face.”