Seventeen years ago, we received a phone call from OTMH. “We have your son’s scan results and the doctor wants to send you to SickKids tonight…… Bring a bag to stay overnight…… Yes, you can stay with him.” My body trembled. For a few previous weeks, I felt that Robert’s headaches and nausea were caused by a brain tumour; that phone call more or less confirmed it. The next day, he had an MRI and was prepped for surgery. Less than 48 hours later, the tumour was removed. We spent the next 10 years in and out of SickKids Toronto for MRIs and visits with doctors; Robert was always clear. He was one of the lucky ones.

For the second year, I am taking part in the Great Cycle Challenge to fight kids’ cancer. My family is grateful for the support that we had; we want to do our part to make sure it is there for others.

Thank you.