This day was supposed to be filled with joy, excitement, and the warmth of welcoming my daughter into the world. Instead, it became the most terrifying and heartbreaking day of my life. When I called the ambulance, I had no idea that my precious little one was in a breech position. I didn’t make it to the hospital in time, and with the help of the paramedics, Wiktoria was born. But instead of hearing her first cry, I was met with an overwhelming silence.
My heart sank as I realized something was terribly wrong. Wiktoria wasn’t breathing. She had suffered severe birth asphyxia and respiratory failure. The paramedics worked tirelessly, resuscitating her twice. I will never forget the sight of them fighting for her life, pressing down on her tiny, fragile body. These moments are etched in my mind and still haunt my dreams, bringing tears to my eyes every night.
After what felt like an eternity, her tiny heart finally started to beat again. Wiktoria was immediately rushed to the hospital, where she spent six long weeks. During those weeks, I wasn’t allowed to be by her side. I could only visit her during designated hours, and each day of separation was a torment I couldn’t put into words. The pain of not being with her, of not holding her in my arms, is something no mother should have to endure.
I tried to stay strong, but the reality was unbearable. I watched as my daughter fought for her life, not knowing if she would make it through the day. Every moment without her by my side was a moment of heartache and fear. But I couldn’t give up. I couldn’t let her fight alone. And when I finally held her in my arms again, after what felt like an eternity, I felt an overwhelming wave of relief. She was still with me. She had made it through the darkest hours, and we could begin to build a future together, no matter how uncertain it was.
Today, Wiktoria is still facing many challenges. She is unable to eat independently and is fed through a specialized feeding tube. At 3 years old, she should be playing, running, and exploring the world around her, but instead, she is struggling with basic functions that many take for granted. I am incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received so far, but the journey is far from over. Wiktoria needs continued specialist care and intensive rehabilitation so that one day she can take her first steps, say her first words, and most importantly, start eating on her own.
The costs of rehabilitation are overwhelming. Each session costs several thousand złoty, and Wiktoria requires multiple sessions throughout the year for any progress to be made. Every visit to the specialist feels like another hurdle to overcome. As her mother, I want to provide everything for her—every opportunity, every chance for a normal life. But the financial burden is more than I can bear alone. The therapy she needs is not just a luxury—it’s a race against time. If we don’t act now, the challenges she faces, like her “gothic palate,” receding lower jaw, and oral hypersensitivity, may worsen, making her recovery even more difficult.
Each day, I am reminded of how fragile life can be. Wiktoria is a beautiful, strong, and determined little girl. She has shown more courage than I ever thought possible. She has been through so much already, and yet, her spirit remains unbroken. She is my inspiration. Every time I see her smile, despite the hardships she faces, I am filled with hope. But as much as I wish I could make everything better for her, I need help. I can’t do this alone.
My only dream is for Wiktoria to have a healthy and fulfilling life. I want her to experience the simple joys of childhood—playing, speaking, and eating just like any other child. Every day I watch her struggle, and my heart breaks knowing that, despite all her strength, she can’t do these things on her own.
I’m asking for your support, whether through donations or by sharing our story. Every little bit helps. Your kindness can make all the difference in Wiktoria’s life. I am humbly asking for your help so my daughter can have the future she deserves. Together, we can give Wiktoria the chance she needs for a better, healthier life.
Thank you for your compassion, your generosity, and your unwavering support. Wiktoria’s fight is not just mine—it’s all of ours. Let’s help her take the next step towards a bright future.
Jacob’s Brave Journey: The Little Boy Who Fought Leukemia With Courage.1928
At just three years old, Jacob’s life was forever changed. What should have been a time filled with carefree laughter, first steps, and the wonders of early childhood was suddenly overshadowed by fear, uncertainty, and a life-threatening diagnosis. In the midst of play and discovery, Jacob was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia — a devastating moment that transformed not only his life but also the lives of his family. Overnight, hospitals, treatments, and medical procedures became the center of his world, and the familiar rhythm of childhood was replaced by a relentless battle against disease.
Jacob’s journey began as part of the “All Together” trial, a program designed to provide the best possible treatment for children with this aggressive form of leukemia. Over the course of more than two years, he underwent countless rounds of chemotherapy, both intravenous and oral, designed to attack the disease aggressively and give him the best chance at recovery. The treatments were complex, demanding, and often exhausting, yet Jacob approached each one with a bravery and calm that amazed everyone around him.
Alongside chemotherapy, Jacob endured lumbar punctures to deliver treatment directly to his spinal fluid, bone marrow tests to monitor his progress, and numerous blood transfusions to support his fragile body. Each procedure brought its own challenges and discomforts. The repeated needles, hospital stays, and general anaesthetics could have overwhelmed even the bravest adult, yet Jacob faced them with resilience that inspired not only his family but also the doctors and nurses who cared for him. Through every test and treatment, he showed courage that went far beyond his tender age, becoming a little warrior whose determination was evident in every action, every smile, and every milestone.
The side effects of treatment were tough. Chemotherapy brought fatigue, nausea, and other physical challenges that made everyday activities difficult for a young child. There were days when even simple movements required immense effort, and moments when Jacob’s body felt weaker than anyone could bear to see. Despite these hardships, Jacob retained his bright spirit, his curiosity, and his ability to bring joy into the lives of those around him. His laughter in hospital corridors, his playful interactions, and his ability to face fear with bravery became a source of hope and inspiration for everyone who witnessed his journey.
Throughout the course of his treatment, every small milestone was celebrated as a victory. Each successful test, each day spent outside the hospital, each moment of play or laughter was treasured by his family as a sign of progress and strength. These achievements were a reminder that even in the darkest times, courage and resilience could shine through. Jacob’s ability to maintain a positive outlook amidst such adversity exemplified the extraordinary bravery that children can display when faced with life-threatening illness.
Finally, on 5th October 2024, Jacob reached a monumental milestone: he rang the bell to mark the end of his treatment. This symbolic moment represented not just the conclusion of chemotherapy but the triumph of hope, perseverance, and courage. The celebration was filled with relief, pride, and overwhelming joy, marking the end of over two years of hospital visits, treatments, and uncertainty. For Jacob and his family, the bell ringing was a moment of validation — a recognition of the bravery he had shown and the journey he had endured with strength far beyond his years.
Now, coming up to one year in remission, Jacob continues to thrive. While he will undergo regular check-ups over the next five years before he can be classed as cured, his progress so far is a testament to his resilience and determination. Each visit to the clinic is a reminder of the journey he has overcome and the continued vigilance required to ensure his health remains on track. Despite the ongoing care, Jacob has embraced life beyond the hospital, growing, learning, and enjoying childhood milestones that were once threatened by his illness.
Jacob’s journey is not just about the medical battles he has faced; it is a story of extraordinary courage, hope, and the unbreakable spirit of a child. It highlights the immense strength that young children can summon when faced with life-threatening challenges and the unwavering dedication of families who walk beside them every step of the way. His story is a powerful reminder that even the smallest among us can display immense bravery and that hope and love can endure even in the most difficult circumstances.
Stories like Jacob’s also show why initiatives such as Go Gold are so important. They raise awareness about childhood cancer, honor the bravery of young fighters, and provide vital support for families navigating the complexities of treatment and recovery. Jacob’s journey demonstrates that, with courage, perseverance, and the support of loved ones, even the most daunting challenges can be faced with strength and hope.
We are honoured to share Jacob’s story as part of our Go Gold campaign for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month — celebrating a little boy whose courage, determination, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire hope, admiration, and love in all who hear his journey. 💛✨
