September: Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
I knew children could get cancer, but I never imagined it would happen to my own child. I also never imagined I would be sharing about the lessons we learned from childhood cancer. Our journey began in May 2015 when our daughter, McKenzie, started having joint pain. She was referred to a Pediatric Rheumatologist and for four months was misdiagnosed with Pediatric Arthritis.
By September, McKenzie became lethargic and developed unexplained bruises. My mother’s instinct told me something was wrong, so I pushed for more testing. After more bloodwork, her Pediatrician called with devastating news. We rushed to McLane Children’s Hospital, where on September 25, 2015, McKenzie was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at the age of three.
Her treatment began immediately, but she didn’t achieve remission in the first month as expected. This moved her into the High-Risk category, requiring more aggressive chemotherapy. In January 2016, we received the amazing news that McKenzie was in remission. However, to reduce the risk of relapse, treatment had to continue for two more years.
Over those two years, McKenzie endured oral, IV, and spinal chemotherapy, steroids, countless hospital stays, and many blood and platelet transfusions. There were complications and setbacks, but McKenzie remained brave.
Finally, in January 2018, she completed her 28 months of treatment, and in February, she got to ring the bell, signaling the end of her fight with cancer.
Our journey was terrifying and exhausting, but McKenzie’s strength gave us hope. We are grateful for the medical care that saved her and are dedicated to raising awareness for Childhood Cancer.
Lessons from the Journey of Childhood Cancer
Childhood Cancer is something no parent can prepare for, and it changes you in ways you never expect. As a mom who has walked that road, I’ve learned a few truths that I hold close to my heart, ones I hope will help others navigating similar experiences.
Trust Your Mom Instincts
The first lesson I learned was to always trust my instincts. From the beginning, there was something deep within me that said something wasn’t right. Despite assurances and even moments of doubt, I pushed for answers. I knew my child better than anyone, and when the doctors finally confirmed McKenzie’s diagnosis, it was clear that my intuition had been right all along. Trusting that inner voice, even when it’s hard or scary, is so important.
Accept Help When It’s Offered
When you’re in the middle of a crisis, people will offer to help in a variety of ways. Whether it’s bringing meals, watching your other kids, or simply sitting with you in the hospital, these offers can feel overwhelming, even burdensome. I learned you can’t do it all alone, and you don’t have to. If someone offers their help, take them up on it. It’s not a sign of weakness; it’s an acknowledgment that no one can carry the weight of this journey by themselves.
The Importance of Blood and Platelet Donations
One of the biggest lessons was learning how critical blood and platelet donations are in the fight against Childhood Cancer. There were many days when McKenzie needed transfusions, and I saw firsthand the difference they made in her recovery and treatment. It opened my eyes to how vital donors are, not just for her, but for countless children battling cancer. It made me passionate about encouraging others to donate blood and platelets — because it saves lives. My husband and I donated occasionally before McKenzie’s diagnosis, but now we donate regularly.
A Journey of Strength and Community
I never wanted to experience this journey, but it taught me to be more patient, to lean on others, and to always trust the instincts that come from the heart of a parent. If I can leave one lasting message for others, it’s this: trust yourself, accept help when it’s offered, and never underestimate the impact of small acts of generosity like donating blood. These lessons have shaped me, and they’ll stay with me for the rest of my life.
To donate blood and/or platelets make an appointment at the local Carter Blood Care donor center located at:
206 Archway Dr, Woodway, TX 76712
Blood dives are also listed at www.carterbloodcare.org. Click on “Donate Now” and type in your zip code and make sure “mobile drives” is turned on.
Tiffany Covert is a Guest Contributor and Waco Mom
She and her husband, Jeff, have been married for 17 years, and have two wonderful kids, Sawyer and McKenzie. When Tiffany is not cheering on her favorite college football team she is dedicated to raising awareness for Childhood Cancer, a cause that’s very close to her heart.
