Austin’s Story – Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Q: How has your sibling’s cancer diagnosis impacted your life?

My sister’s diagnosis had a tremendous impact on our lives, affecting aspects like our daily routines, school schedules, medical appointments, relationships with family and friends, emotional health, and even simple transportation needs. Initially, the biggest changes came in the form of frequent hospital visits and doctor appointments, followed by new transitions such as physical therapy and helping to manage medications.

Although very turbulent throughout the years, the experience ultimately showed my sister’s incredible resilience and made me immensely appreciative of the support we received from friends and family.

Q: What is one thing you wish others knew about life as a sibling of someone with a childhood cancer diagnosis?

I wish that others knew just how far-reaching a cancer diagnosis can seep into daily life and change our perspectives both big and small. At times, it can be a sobering wake-up call or suffocating in the way it holds anxiety of the unknown over us. At others, it reinforces our connections with loved ones and reminds us of what truly matters. It changes everyone; support is something we all need. Cancer can be scary to face alone, but together we can overcome it.

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to a sibling of someone who is newly diagnosed with childhood cancer?

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” – Gandalf, The Lord of the Rings