A Healing for Hunter

The responsibilities of parenting come with a range of emotions. From pride and joy when signing a child up for preschool to fear and apprehension when signing a child up for a medical trial. Hunter’s parents faced each of these experiences within a few days. After taking Hunter to the doctor for a fever and a suspected viral infection, they received the devastating diagnosis of cancer. Specifically, Hunter was diagnosed with Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic B-Cell Leukemia.

Hunter’s parents entered him in a Children’s Oncology Group Study for new drug treatments in March of 2014. Embracing their “new normal” they put their trust in Hunter’s oncologists and prepared to endure the upcoming months of treatment. This embodied some of the painful emotions of parenting as they watched their son suffer through drug treatments that were toxic yet necessary to save his life.

After a long fight against cancer, Hunter has finally completed his treatment. Hunter’s parents are excited to begin experiencing some of the more positive emotions of parenthood again. They look forward to seeing what a cancer-free future will hold for Hunter and what new treatments may be developed for children and adults in similar situations. While they are grateful that Hunter’s cancer was cured, they hope future treatments will decrease the suffering necessary to eradicate cancer.

The family recently celebrated Hunter’s sixth birthday with a Disney-themed cake from baker, Jaclyn Dinko. The cake elicited a smile from Hunter that his parents “wouldn’t trade for the world.” Joy in moments like this are the bright side of parenting, which is cherished even more after experiencing the devastating effects of cancer.

Hunter’s story of survival can provide hope to children and parents alike as they grapple with the physical and emotional effects of cancer. As Hunter’s mother, Stephanie, says, “Cancer will always be a part of his story but it will never define him.”