TINONEE teenager, Emma Jarvie and her mum, Karen have been living in a whirlwind since Emma was diagnosed with leukaemia in January, but through it all they have been buoyed by the tremendous support they have received from the community.
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For the past four months, Emma and Karen have been living at Ronald McDonald House in Randwick while Emma has been undergoing treatment.
“The community’s support throughout this difficult time has been amazing. Initially we thought we would be spending a few weeks in Sydney and it turned out to be months,” Karen said.
Emma is a well known member of the community, partly due to her extensive involvement in sports and community groups – but mostly because of her sunny and friendly nature. Emma goes out of her way to make those around her feel comfortable and appreciated.
“She is always joking with the doctors and nurses. They have all commented on what a positive person she is.
“But we do have our low times too, and that is when the community support has been an incredible source of strength for both of us,” Karen said.
Emma agreed that the community’s support has made a big difference for her.
“I can’t thank everyone enough for their help and kind wishes. Their hearts are amazing,” Emma said.
“People we don’t even know have put money in our account. I’ve had hundreds of cards and teddy bears sent to my unit at Ronald McDonald house. It means so much to me to know that people care.”
Emma received some difficult news last week. Her initial treatment has been unable to secure a remission of the disease.
She will now have to undergo more intensive and invasive chemotherapy and have a cord blood transfusion. This means she will be spending the rest of the year in Sydney and will not be able to return home for her 15th birthday in August as planned.
“My spirits are still pretty high, but apparently my wellness is a bit low,” Emma said.
“The chemotherapy has left me with no immune system, so I can’t physically visit and tell everyone how grateful I am for their support and well wishes.”
Emma’s doctor gave her a window of opportunity to return home for a quick visit over the weekend, before her next round of treatment commences.
Although Emma admits to being worried about what the next seven months will be like, she is remaining positive and is looking forward to being back in the swing of things next year.
Emma’s friends are also looking forward to her return.
The unexpected open front door of her house attracted the attention of some friends returning home from school on Friday. Ashley Doorey and Emily Becker came bursting through the door in anticipation of seeing their friend, who has been greatly missed over the past couple of months.
“We miss Emma so much. We can’t wait until she comes home,” Ashley said.
Emma, who was all smiles, said staying in touch with her friends has been crucial to her staying positive.
“There is no one my age staying at Ronald Mccdonald House at the moment, so I do get a bit lonely at times. But everyone is wonderful down there. They do their best to make it a home away from home. I even get some help with my school work. There is no place like home though. I miss my friends and my dogs,” Emma said.
Emma admits her recent experiences have given her a new perspective about life.
“Life is a gift for me. Every moment is precious. I know this year is going to be tough, but everyone’s support has made a big difference,” Emma said.
