Fight Club: Remember Oscar?

Recently we shared Oscar’s story with you, where we supported his family with the immense financial stress that came with travelling to Oscar’s cancer treatment.

When Oscar was taken to hospital at just five months old, his mum Jo and dad Russell had no idea that the journey ahead of them would be so heartbreaking, that it would devastate their family and cause immense financial stress.

“The journey to hospital was just so far and expensive.”

“There were times when we had to leave Theo for six or seven days at a time because the journey to hospital was just so far and expensive. It was incredibly hard. We were juggling travel costs with extra childcare for Theo and everything was completely overwhelming.”

I’m Nicky, a Young Lives vs Cancer Social Worker, and every day I see how soaring costs are devastating the lives of young cancer patients and their families. According to our research, one in 10 children and young people will miss their treatment because they can’t afford the journey. It’s heartbreaking.

But, thanks to the kindness of supporters like you, I was there to help Oscar and his family cope with all the financial pressures, the crippling fears and anxieties.

“Oscar is enjoying life”

I’m so pleased to share an update from Jo, Oscar’s mum, on his wonderful progress:

“Oscar has now finished treatment and has scans every six months. He was late walking and has been left with some nerve damage in his foot. But he doesn’t let it stop him – he’s such a character.

“He’s into everything and never stops running around and playing. He’s just about to finish his first year at nursery and he’s doing so well. We’re also now a family of five! Oscar is enjoying life as a big brother. Thank you so much for being there for children like Oscar.”

Jo