In a continued effort to raise $50,000 to support the Haematology/Oncology Division at SickKids. Our son Vincent was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in late April of 2020. Since his diagnosis, we have been through an inconceivably dark and helpless period into a very bright and joyous one. Vincent conquered, concluding his treatment/rang the traditional bell in July of 2023. We would like to bring attention to the remarkable level of care he received, and continues to receive at SickKids and the men and women who are saving children’s lives.
Our experience with Vincent’s battle allowed us to become acquainted with other children and their families. We witnessed how cancers affect children from all walks of life. From different cultures to different regions, from wealthy to the desperate, cancer is blind to any and all differences. Almost all childhood cancers are unpredictable, and can occur regardless of lifestyle, setting, or care. It can happen to any child. As a parent you experience the truest form of helplessness and desperation. You are at the mercy of the health care system. We were privledges to live in Toronto and have access to SickKids. It provides all patients with the same level of care, which is the best a child can receive. Literally. SickKids was ranked by the top pediatric hospital in the world by Newsweek in 2021. It is a leader internationally on childhood cancer care, and is the second-largest pediatric research hospital in the world. SickKids benefits families on a local, national, and international level. They lead research and development in many fields, resulting in effective care and programs helping children everywhere.
As parents, there is nothing in our lives that we wouldn't give to support our children, to keep them safe and healthy. When a parent receives a diagnosis, the sense of powerless is profound. The doctors, nurses, and general staff provide the support, care, and confidence needed to know that your child is receiving the attention and care needed. Simply put, they want to make a difference. They aren’t paid more or receive any additional benefits for choosing to work there. They care about kids and it’s evident. The unmatched and ongoing commitment with the daily challenges they experience is nothing short of heroic. Vincent's story is one to celebrate, but unfortunately there are children and families in significantly tougher situations. You can help the children, the families, and the staff by donating. Supporting SickKids helps ensure the ongoing progress and positive impact they are having on children’s lives.
Financial contributions are well utilized, and go to programs and cancer research which aim to facilitate breakthroughs in treatments and cures. To quote Vincent’s personal hero, Dr. James Whitlock, “I’m looking forward to the day when children will not need to be treated with the slash of surgery, the burns of radiation, and the poisons of chemotherapy.” And his hopes are not far off as recent studies have shown “promising progress in personalized treatments aimed to attack the genetic abnormalities…”and the reality of treating future cancers with a simplified drug program is closer than we realize. Donating will help maintain the momentum towards this outcome. Arthur C. Clarke wrote in his three laws, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic." Help the transition from magic to advanced medicine.
Your donation will benefit the most innocent, and arguably the most important part of society, the children. Every little bit helps. Donations are made directly to SickKids Foundation, and you get your tax receipt as soon as you donate.
To all previous and new donors, with our deepest and most literal sincerity, thank you for your donation.
Peace and love,
Jaclyn Whyte and Roberto Sguassero