We have priceless happy memories
In 2017 Willow delivered its 14,000 Special Day, one of those was for Jason. Here his partner Leigh-anne shares their story:
“Before Jason was diagnosed we were a normal, busy and carefree family. We have three children and we never took life too seriously.
In October 2016 Jason was rushed to hospital with pains in his back - we never thought that our lives could be turned upside down so quickly. Jason was diagnosed with kidney cancer two weeks after being admitted to hospital. Emotions were high, panic had started to set in and the reality of how serious this could be spread fear through us all.
Once we met with the consultant and Macmillan nurse things started to move quickly. It was decided that the best course of action, due to the size of the tumour, was to remove Jason’s entire kidney. The first date that was offered to us for the operation was Christmas Eve, we decided to postpone this so we could enjoy Christmas as a ‘normal’ family. Jason’s operation went ahead on 28th December, it went well and he was up on his feet within hours of the long operation. Jason returned home on New Years Day and we started 2017 cancer free. The road to recovery was difficult, at times it was stressful and emotional, but with the love and support from everyone around us Jason has come out the other side and we were all by his side.
Our Macmillan nurse suggested we apply for a Special Day. At this time emotions were very raw but it gave us the distraction that we needed, something to think about other than the diagnosis.
We chose to go to Center Parcs where we would be able have some quality family time together as well as celebrating Jason’s birthday. We had a new focus and finally had something to look forward to. When Jason felt low or struggled with his aches and pains the thought of our impending trip away really lifted his spirits.