6 Months on...
1 September 2025
We are now 6 months post Leukaemia diagnosis for our Jake.
The type of Leukaemia Jake has meant that the best result for him would be via a stem cell (bone marrow) transplant. After testing and an investigation of the worldwide register, it was determined that his best donor match was an anonymous donor from the UK.
Jake underwent what has been described as the strongest chemo one can have (that many adults dont tolerate), in order to prep for transplant. This obviously came with its own challenges.
On July 23rd the donor cells arrived after being escorted as carry-on by a kiwi tasked with this job. The same day, they were infused and since this time, Jake has been recovering and rebuilding a whole new immune system. It is impossible to put into words how horrendous this has been for Jake, and the four of us have managed things in isolation that I would not wish on another family.
I am so pleased to say that it appears the biggest challenges are now past us and that Jake is smashing expectations all over the place after his 'text book transplant'. He is to remain close to Starship for the next few weeks at least, so the amazing Ronald McDonald house is our home away from home... but he is now technically an outpatient!
Thank you for everyone's continued support.
Jake is now looking forward to life beyond hospital, going back to school, playing more drums, seeing more people. It's just a matter of time 😊
