Cancer Research UK/SWNS
Gracie McHugh diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2023
A mother who was told her daughter had the flu discovered she was suffering from something much more serious — after going online when her toddler’s health continued to deteriorate.
Helen Jackson took her daughter Gracie McHugh, then 2, to the hospital in January 2023 with flu-like symptoms. But the little girl was sent home, where her condition quickly worsened.
Gracie developed a rash – then lost the ability to walk – Jackson, 39, told South West News Service via The daily mail. The mother of four looked up her daughter’s symptoms online and took her child back to the hospital.
Cancer Research UK/SWNS
Helen Jackson with her daughter Gracie McHugh, now 4
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There, they received news that Jackson said was a “total shock”: Gracie was suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The word “acute” refers to the rapid progression of blood and bone marrow cancer, says the Mayo Clinic — and as Gracie’s mother explained, the toddler was playing normally and dancing around the house for a few days ago.
The treatment was immediate, says the mother from Halifax, England: Her daughter received a blood transfusion, then transferred to Leeds General Infirmary for ten days of intense chemotherapy and steroids. She also started physiotherapy to learn to walk again.
“It was such a dark time when Gracie was diagnosed,” Jackson told the outlet. “Luckily, she was too young to understand what was going on.”
Cancer Research UK/SWNS
Gracie McHugh in hospital after being diagnosed with cancer at age 2.
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This March, more than two years after her initial diagnosis, Gracie is expected to finally end her treatment. Her mother says she has weak legs due to osteopenia, a low bone density that can be caused by chemotherapy.
Gracie has now signed up for a Cancer Research UK clinical trial into treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
“The end is in sight now, with Gracie’s treatment almost over, and we have so much to look forward to this year,” said her mother, who added that Gracie’s courage in facing her illness earned her a “ Star Prize” for Cancer Research. UNITED KINGDOM.
“Cancer Research UK is a fantastic charity that recognizes these extraordinary, brave children and helps fund the clinical trial that Gracie took part in,” Jackson said.
“We couldn’t be more proud of Gracie receiving a Star Award as she has been incredibly brave throughout her treatment.”
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