When we got to the emergency room at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, we expected to be told that Jade had the flu. Instead, Jade, at 2 and a half years old, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We were in shock.

It took us a good 24-48 hours to realize what was happening.

All of a sudden, you find yourselves surrounded by various medical teams; you’re visited by the oncology and hematology teams; and you have no idea just how long treatments are going to be... At first, you don’t understand it all, so you don’t realize the impact your child’s illness is going to have on your lives in the long run. Because of Jade’s illness, we’ve been hospitalized several times on the 8D floor. During hospitalization, time passes slowly. But thanks to Child Life services, there are plenty of activities available for families. For example, Jade was eager for her neutrophil counts – this is to assess whether her immune system is strong enough –  to find out whether she was going to meet with Gaia, the pet therapy dog, and have her picture taken with her. That would brighten up her day. Also, there’s a kitchen on 8D, a very important place to meet other parents and share stories and information. And as you don’t always have money for the cafeteria or the restaurant during long hospitalizations, you can use the kitchen to prepare meals. It’s also comforting for the children who, tired of eating in their little tray, are delighted to eat a homemade mac and cheese! Jade loves going to 8D. For her, it’s like going to a hotel! She loves going but she doesn’t understand that every time she goes, she’s sick. Above all, 8D is like a big family, it’s our second family. This is what helps us get throughout the illness. I would like to thank all those who support the Montreal Children’s Hospital for their donation. Caroline, a grateful mom

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