In Belfast, Northern Ireland, Rachael Burns is facing an unimaginable battle.
The 22-year-old mother learned the heartbreaking news just as her daughter, Raeya, celebrated her first birthday: she has diffuse midline glioma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.
With doctors predicting just four months to live, the weight of this prognosis is overwhelming, especially for a young mother worrying about leaving her partner and child behind.
Early Signs and Diagnosis
Rachael’s ordeal began eight months prior when she experienced persistent headaches, dizziness, and eye discomfort.
Initially brushed off as everyday ailments, her symptoms escalated, prompting a critical hospital visit in early June 2024.
The diagnosis that followed was devastating; however, it sparked a fierce determination in her, even amid such bleak predictions.
Medical professionals indicated that most patients in her condition could expect to live only 9 to 12 months.
Determined to create lasting memories for Raeya, Rachael chose to channel her instincts as a mother into writing birthday cards for her daughter to open in the years to come.
With only radiotherapy on the horizon, which offered little hope, Rachael and her family sought alternative treatments, eventually discovering ONC201, a promising therapy available in Germany.
However, pursuing this option came with significant financial needs, including costs for travel, lodging, and medication.
Community Support
In response, Rachael’s family launched a GoFundMe campaign, rallying support from the community to help cover the expenses.
Their mission goes beyond just raising funds; it’s about ensuring Rachael and Raeya can savor every precious moment together, especially given the heavy shadow cast by the diagnosis.
The community’s reaction has been overwhelming.
Within a single day, supporters raised around £30,000 (approximately $38,000 USD), reflecting the extraordinary spirit of generosity coming from West Belfast and beyond.
Grateful for the kindness shown to her, Rachael expressed how this outpouring of support has reignited her hope during such a challenging period.
Surrounded by the unwavering support of her community, she feels empowered to cherish her time with her daughter.
Rachael discovered that this innovative treatment might extend the lives of patients facing similar challenges by as much as 22 months.
While that might sound brief, for Raeya, even a little extra time is invaluable.
Rachael is tirelessly committed to fighting for her daughter’s future, ensuring Raeya knows just how far her mother is willing to go.
Progress and Gratitude
In December 2024, Rachael shared uplifting news on her GoFundMe page: a recent MRI showed her tumor had stabilized, and there was no sign of cancer in her spine.
This remarkable update highlighted how far she’d come since the alarming predictions made earlier in the year.
Reflecting on her journey, Rachael’s gratitude is palpable.
After overcoming what once felt insurmountable, she now delights in walking without assistance and creating memories with her loved ones.
The generous donations have provided her with not just the means to access treatment but also precious moments and renewed possibilities.
As Rachael and her family continue to accept donations, they remain optimistic about the future.
The unwavering love and kindness from their community have fortified their resolve to withstand adversity, showcasing the incredible strength of support, resilience, and hope in the human spirit.
Source: Upworthy