OPACC Holiday Sponsors

Israel, lovingly known as Izzy, was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma in June 2024 at age 3. This type of cancer formed in his left adrenal gland and spread throughout his little body, including his abdomen, spine, and bone marrow. Izzy has required several rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, stem cell transplants, and his journey continues. Audette is a single mother and this diagnosis has further put a strain on the family's finances. Emotionally, this diagnosis has been very difficult. Eli is Izzy's 8 year old brother and he misses his brother dearly now that we have been in hospital for almost four weeks. We are grateful for family and friends who have supported us in this journey.

Christmastime continues to be a bittersweet occasion for our family. Sadella was diagnosed one week before her first Christmas. She spent Christmas Eve in the NICU with an angel of a nurse, while my husband and I tried to make it a special time for our 7-year-old son while staying at the Chelsea in Toronto. Ten years later, we are so thankful to have Sadella with us and be able to celebrate the Holiday season. But we also carry tremendous debt from the time we spent in hospital and the loss of a parent's full-time job for several years. Any contribution to our wishlist will always be appreciated by and for our children, while we continue to teach them the true meaning of the Holidays and what is most important. Thank you all - may your Holidays be filled with joy, peace, health and happiness!

Bentley was diagnosed with stage 4 CCSK (clear cell sarcoma of the kidney) at 2.5 years old in February of 2019. He went through so much in his short life. His sisters went through a lot as well watching their brother go through everything he went through and having their parents constantly gone to the hospital. Bentley passed away 9 days after his 6th birthday with his parents and sisters by his side in August 2022. We are still trying to heal from this immense loss, I don't even really have words to explain it.

My son was diagnosed with Leukemia (Lymphoma) in May 2022. He is doing his treatment at Sick Kids Hospital & the POGO clinic. It's been a challenging time for my family but we are strong. Thank you so much for the nurses, doctor, volunteers, OPACC - everybody who is making a difference in our lives!

Two out of my three children are diagnosed with sickle cell anemia. My oldest, who is 7, has had many hurdles to overcome with sickle cell. From long hospital visits, blood transfusions, to specialist appointments, our children have been able to keep a smile and a positive attitude. Some of the challenge our oldest has at school regarding having sickle cell is not being able to go outside in -5 degree weather, which often leaves him inside in the office, and having some special items he can bring to school that he can use when the weather doesn’t allow him to. Family is everything and as a family we try our best to live in the moment with our children to create memories to last us a lifetime.

Our daughter was diagnosed with Nephroblastoma in 2022 and overcame that in the same year. She was diagnosed with AML leukemia in 2023 as a result of the treatment of the first one. She was cleared in 2023 only for the leukemia to return in 2024. It has been a long journey for us all, most especially for her as she has been frequenting the hospital always. She is strong-willed and we are sure she will come out of it victorious.

Joel was diagnosed in 2022 with Stage 4 Hodgkins Lymphoma after many months of feeling unwell. Thankfully after 5 intense rounds of chemotherapy he was in remission. To this day he still struggles with the aftermath. In April of this year Joel's mom, Elisa, was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma stage 4 as well. She did 6 months of chemo and is waiting on a PET scan to see what's next. It has been super hard for Joel and his siblings to see mom go through it as well.

Alivia was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 14. She underwent surgery at Christmastime (Dec 22, just last year!) where they removed her ovary. Alivia was also diagnosed with a gene mutation called DICER1 that can cause different types of cancer. Alivia now visits SickKids every 3 months for surveillance. Last Christmas was the most difficult time and we missed Christmas. We are trying so hard to create memories that surround positivity and help to lessen the traumatic events that surround the Holidays. Alivia spreads so much joy to others and first to help people in need that she deserves time to enjoy, process, and just enjoy being a teenager!

Kaysie was diagnosed 3 months before her 3rd birthday with stage 4 Wilms Tumor cancer in 2021. The cancer spread from her kidney to her lymph nodes, right IVC and her lungs. From the very beginning she fought hard and bravely. Enduring endless treatments, hospital stays and a major surgery. Throughout it all she remained happy, loving, kind and courageous. Now in remission, Kaysie is seen every 3 months for follow ups and will require monitoring for the rest of her life. Shockingly I too (her mom) had the same cancer when I was 4 and we found out through Kaysie's journey with her cancer, that a gene had been found in 2018 that made it possible for some family members to pass on to their children. It was with this info we found out that myself, Kaysie and her brother Joseph are all positive for that gene and so he too requires frequent monitoring until he is a certain age. Luckily my other 3 children tested negative. Kaysie is such a bright star and she brings a love and warmth to everyone around her. We are so lucky to still be able to have our girl with us and see how far she's progressing since treatment. We hope her story brings strength and joy to those who hear it, as that's how she held herself through it all, and we thank those who have helped make this journey a less scary one to endure for our girl. It means the world to Kaysie and to us, her family.

Dominic was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma when he was just 9 years old. He endured harsh radiation treatments and chemotherapy in order to beat the cancer. After a year of treatments, in August of 2020, Dominic was declared cancer free! He is now 14 years old and 4 years cancer free! Our journey is far from over. He still has challenges and obstacles in front of him. We still have MRI appointments and follow ups with our doctors. Dominic will be on medication for the rest of his life due to side effects from radiation and chemotherapy.

Oliver started to fall ill in October of 2023. After an extremely difficult winter and spring, Sick Kids Toronto took him in and found two germinoma tumours on his pituitary and pineal glands. Since April 5th, 2024, he has been through four rounds of chemotherapy and twenty radiation treatments to the head. Oliver has been left with hypopituitarism including adrenal insufficiency. He will have his first post-treatment MRI next week. It has been a very tough year but he is a strong young man working his best towards healing. We are forever grateful for all the wonderful supports that have been shared with us during this time.

Aleena is a true warrior, a survivor of stage 4 neuroblastoma who was diagnosed just shy of her second birthday. After enduring years of grueling treatment, she bravely emerged from her battle. Yet, her journey didn’t end with remission. Aleena continues to face the challenges of severe anxiety and PTSD, something no child should ever have to carry. Each September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Aleena stands strong in front of her school, sharing her story with courage and pride. She leads her school in the walk, a powerful symbol of her resilience. To know Aleena is to be moved by her kindness and strength—her heart of gold shines in everything she does. As a big sister to her younger siblings, Aleena’s love and devotion are unwavering. She’s the kind of friend who always puts others first, with a spirit that inspires everyone around her. Though her battle was never easy, Aleena continues to show the world what true strength looks like. We are all in awe of her and deeply moved by the light she brings to the lives of those who know her.

Quinn is a 7-year-old girl whose cancer journey started at age of 2 when she was diagnosed with leukemia. Through countless treatments, lumbar punctures, pokes, and surgeries, Quinn has continued to be the strongest and bravest little girl we know. Thank you for making some of these kids' Christmas a little more special!

My son Sohal Salehe was first diagnosed with leukemia (ALL) in 2012 when he was 3.5 years old. After 5 years of treatment he was done, but unfortunately he relapsed in 2021 and his second treatment was done by September 2024. All of these years caused a lot of mental and financial problems in our family. We are fighting everyday with paying bills, maxed out credit cards, and everyday life experiences.

My adorable 5 year-old son (he'll be 6 in January), Benjamin (Benji) Jason-Alboim, is now in remission for life-threatening, rare cancer (hepatoblastoma liver cancer). Benji was diagnosed on his first birthday. My husband, Jesse, has also had cancer himself. Because Benji's and Jesse's immune systems are compromised, and because of the COVID pandemic, we had been mostly isolating at home for a long time, so Benji was unable to go to preschool, socialize, or go out much to have fun. He is beyond excited (but also somewhat anxious) to have started senior kindergarten this Fall! Benji has been an absolute superhero - bravely fighting cancer and the side effects of surgeries and harsh chemotherapy (some of which are unfortunately long-term/permanent, including some permanent disability and some delays), having Childhood Apraxia of Speech, a very recent diagnosis of autism, and all the stress and upheaval with my husband's health, while being the most fun-loving, charming, engaging, sweet, affectionate, adventurous, curious, quirky, and hilarious little boy. He's also been even more resilient, as we had been out of our house for months, displaced by a severe flood, and are still dealing with the aftermath. We haven't been working due to the cancer struggles for both Benji and my husband, so we would be incredibly grateful for anything.

Alice was diagnosed with brain cancer when she was 10 months old. She completed 17 long months of chemotherapy and a trial drug like a champ with the support of her sisters. Unfortunately her tumor is growing slowly and she will need more treatment in the future but we are enjoying being treatment-free right now. Alice loves dancing, singing and playing with her sisters. We love spending time outside and doing crafts together as a family. Thank you so much for considering Alice and any of these amazing families.

Qais had been diagnosed with Ganglioneroblastoma when he was 2 years old. He had a 10 hour surgery and was back to normal. Suddenly at the age of 6 he was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer called Neuroblastoma. He had 2 years treatment of high-dose chemo, bone marrow transplant, radiation and many other treatments. Qais had missed so much in his short life. He wants to enjoy life now as much as he can.

Hunter was diagnosed on Sept 4 with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The grace and strength he is displaying fighting this as an 8-year-old is amazing. He has decided to call his treatment Hakuna Matata because it means no worries and that is what his treatment will give all of us eventually. His 12-year-old brother is having to grow up so quickly because of all of this and that is the type of thing you do not realize is going to happen at first. Everyone tells you what to expect for your child but not how the disease will truly affect everything else. We as a family never imagined this happening, wish daily that it had not happened, and hope daily for an end to this disease.

Sometimes life deals lemons...sometimes it deals cancer. I wish my little baby had lemons. A pediatric oncology ward is no place for a 23-month-old child to be spending his days and nights. Yet there he was. Acute Lymphatic Lymphoma so I was told. They can call it whatever they want, it's cancer...it sucks...and it's not fair.

Hi there, first just like to say thank you so much for your support. Our son's name is Joseph but everyone calls him Joey. Two weeks before his 2nd birthday he was diagnosed with Stage 3 lymphoma. We noticed a swollen lymph node on his neck and a couple days later we were living at SickKids hospital and started his long two and half year journey of chemotherapy. I know it sounds like a long time but he is the strongest person we know and our super hero. Thank You!

Our family has been on a challenging journey since our son, Ted, was diagnosed with T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL). Ted has undergone numerous treatments, including chemotherapy, transfusions, and surgical procedures, and has shown incredible strength throughout. Despite facing hospital admissions and daily battles, his spirit inspires us all. This Holiday season, we are hoping to bring a little joy and comfort to our family.

My son Reo was just 11 when he was diagnosed with Germinoma brain cancer back in 2019. He endured two difficult brain surgeries, as well as aggressive rounds of chemo and radiation therapy. Although he beat the cancer, it came at a cost. He lost his short term memory, his growth hormone was damaged, and he developed irreversible double vision which hinders his everyday life. Despite the struggles, Reo has a resilience and a positivity that inspires me everyday. He relies on his long term memory, threw himself into his studies and against all odds began excelling academically. At the most recent oncology appointment, we were devastated to hear of a new growth in the early stages. But Reo's spirit remains unbroken, he believes deeply that he is not defined by cancer and continues to dream of becoming a successful businessman. As a single mother and sole provider for 15 years, financial challenges are constant. Supporting Reo's journey to university is something I yearn to make possible for him next year. It would mean the world if anyone could assist me in making Reo's dreams achievable. He is an exceptional young man, full of kindness, gratitude and resolve. God bless you, and thank you so much!

Domenic was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, he went through many years of chemotherapy and medication and now is finally done his treatment. He has 3 brothers and one of them is his twin. This year he has started high school and is loving and appreciating life to its fullest!

Dominic's story began at just 5 years old when he was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer. He had to have immediate surgery to remove the tumor. They successfully removed the tumor but he suffered from posterior fossa syndrome where he was not able to eat, talk or walk for months. He was hospitalized for 6 months completing six rounds of chemotherapy at Sick Kids Hospital. He finished his chemotherapy and finally came home days before Christmas. It was a short stay at home and he left after New Year's to spend the next 4 months as an inpatient at Holland Bloorview hospital to learn how to eat, talk and walk again. Over time Dominic was able to walk, talk and eat and just enjoy life. There are some challenges he will have to live with, including hearing loss, but we were all happy to see him grow up to just enjoy life. On his 14th birthday, all our hearts broke after finding out that he relapsed. The tumor returned and he had to start the process all over again. Surgery was successful as they removed the tumor, but this time it affected his vision. He had to complete weeks of radiation over the Christmas holidays and multiple rounds of chemotherapy. We thank God everyday that Dominic is still with us and a two-time cancer survivor. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

Ruhi was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma in April 2023 and since then our lives changed. Our way of looking at things changed. The treatment at the hospital, rehab center, OT, PT, and speech went on for the whole of 2023 and we are still working on Ruhi’s physical strength. It's been a challenging time but we are strong.

In 2022, Guneet was diagnosed with a spine tumour and underwent a 10-hour-long surgery. He started recovering. But in 2023, the tumour came back on multiple areas of his spine and this time we went to the United States for proton therapy. He is getting better day-by-day and starting to live a normal life. This journey was tough and we've tried to make it.

In 2022 our son was diagnosed with a rare form of leukaemia called JMML. Our son went through two transplants, leaving him home in remission for less than 6 months when he then relapsed. Nolan had to have a third transplant with the stakes very high, whether he would survive or not. We are here, enjoying every single day post-transplant. Praying this awful disease does not return. The likeliness of JMML disease returning is very high. We as a family have been home and by his side through every hospital admission and out of work, the last two years with three children in total. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Beauty and serenity surrounds us, and we can always find something to be grateful for - a lesson Dr. Darren Thomas, an Indigenous scholar, reminded me of during a recent inaugural graduation event. He spoke about an Indigenous thanksgiving ceremony, that reminds us that despite the sadness in the world, the conflict, pain and suffering, we still have the ability and the choice to be grateful. Holding both the pain of suffering and gratitude for what surrounds us is easier said than done in the midst of major challenges, such as a cancer diagnosis.

Just when I truly believed we were out of the woods, after three years of clear MRI's, my son's ugly PXA brain tumour decided to pay a visit. At only 11 years old, he is the picture of health; he's active and sassy and incredibly kind and polite. Did I mention handsome? You would never know what's happening underneath the surface. He survived, with the poise of a superhero, the first cancer ordeal in 2021 without much scarring, internal or external, as far as we could tell. The scar on his skull, starting from the top centre of his head travelling down toward the left ear in an odd zigzag pattern is usually hidden by his hair, until he gets a haircut, and then the hairdresser always comments on how cool the scar looks. It was three and half years ago his brain tumour was removed; that whole incredible journey took about 2 months; symptoms, diagnosis, surgery - and he was only 8 then. He recovered amazingly well, which the surgeon told me he would, but I would not have believed it until I saw it with my own eyes. This incredible ability my beautiful son has to heal, the way he lives in the moment with such ease as only a child can do.

I've become aware, as a parent in this role, that life after cancer becomes a practice of holding one's breath, wondering if and when it might return. All the MRI's in the past three years miraculously came back clear. I really believed we had beat this, until the MRI in October '24. The news arrived by phone, the Thursday before Thanksgiving weekend, and understandably, I was feeling grateful for nothing that weekend. It's a bit of a blur; there was still the prep for the Thanksgiving dinner to be made, and the children still needed to be cared for, and it all got done. My brave face was brave at moments, and many tears were shed throughout the meal preparation, usually in front of a sink full of dishes, or while out walking the dog by myself. I did not know how to feel, or what to feel.

As a psychotherapist, (carrying a small caseload of clients, allowing me to focus on my son), who guides people toward understanding their thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, I was at a complete loss. There were no words, there was no comfort, and life went on. My son's life goes on too, unaffected at this moment; he is doing well, and is supported and loved, and overall, very healthy, as we move toward deciding on treatment. His prognosis is good, but there is still much to learn and know. McMaster Children's Hospital in Hamilton have created such a supportive team, and because of ongoing research, my son will be starting on medication that has been shown to manage this type of tumour. He will be monitored closely over the next year.

The support we have had has helped us feel less isolated in all of this. We have made good friends and memories through Campfire Circle; I received warmth and validation from the women at Ontario Parents Advocating for Children with Cancer, and Hope Spring's counselling has been invaluable with the support of their trusted therapy program. Both my children's schools have shared such warmth and support and my trusted friends have listened with care. My painful silence during my son's initial cancer journey, I have since learned, is often how parents and caregivers deal with such a diagnosis. This time around, I hope to find writing to be a way to process and share, with a community of caring people, the realities we sometimes face that are not always comfortable to talk about, but that do not go away from remaining silent.

Matthew Labarca Ramalho was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on June 27, 2024. He is doing his treatment at Sick Kids Hospital. He is a strong boy and we are learning with him everyday. We are so confident about his treatment and that he will be cured soon. Thank you so much for the nurses, doctor, volunteers, OPACC - everybody who is making a difference in our lives!

Our family is small but mighty, a tight-knit trio bonded by love and resilience. Wade, my 10-year-old son, was diagnosed with a brain tumor at just 2 years old. He’s faced multiple surgeries and treatments with bravery and grace. Currently in month six of a two-year treatment protocol—his fifth round—Wade continues to inspire us with his positive attitude and old soul. Despite the challenges, he’s full of life, maintaining the active, adventurous spirit of any 10-year-old boy. His twin sister, Simone, is his rock and biggest cheerleader. Creative and full of energy, Simone is a talented dancer, singer, and natural performer with a flair for the dramatic. Her unwavering support for Wade has been nothing short of remarkable. Together, we form a family that values every moment. Though life has brought us hardships, we find joy in the little things, like dancing in the kitchen and celebrating each day. We fiercely love and support one another, embracing both the struggles and triumphs of our journey. Through it all, we’ve learned that strength, laughter, and love can carry us through even the toughest times.

My name is Zeyaan Wahhaj. I am just 4.5 years old and dealing with diseases involving every single organ of my body. For example, nephretic system, respiratory system, brain, muscular system, and digestive system. Because of this I am totally dependent on my parents and nurses to help me out in everything, even the basic things. I am a happy child besides everything and don't get angry fast. I cannot sit, take turns, can't stand, can't talk.But I love to play with toys while I am in my special chair or special stander. That's why I want to keep playing so my hands keep on working. On top of everything going on with me, I am dealing with kidney cancer and I have gone through chemotherapy and major surgeries to remove the tumors, but unfortunately the tumors keep on coming back, which led to radio therapies again. After some time they are back again and I have no idea how my life will be. I am already fighting a lot! My mom says I am a warrior but I don't know how far I will make it. According to doctors my life expectancy was only 12 months, but I am glad to be 4.5 years old already. I am a fighter and will keep on fighting with the tumors. I know for sure my parents are so proud of me as i don't give up quickly, I fight for my life. I fight to have more lovely times with my loving parents. I fight for my loved ones. I love my life even though it's not the best, but I'm never gonna give up.

Arjan was only 2 weeks when we took him to Sick Kids for an MRI. Since that day our entire life changed. He was diagnosed with rare tumor on his face. His chemo started when he was one month old in September 2022. Unfortunately, that didn't help to shrink the tumor. Three types of other chemos were tried with no success. We were sent for radiation to Ohio in July 2024. From Ohio we were called back because of uncertainty of his diagnosis without having started radiation. The team at Sick Kids decided to treat him with new medication in August 2024. Luckily, we got some good news in November 2024 that the tumor started to shrink. Hopefully it continues to shrink this time. In this whole journey my superhero stayed really strong and continues to fight each and every day.

My child suffers from a rare disease called Moon Children which has developed into skin cancer since birth until now. He is fighting to stay alive. The financial situation is bad and the child's father is deceased. I wish all children recovery and safety.

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[Note from OPACC: The parent was not able to make an Amazon wishlist but the only item on their wishlist is an iPad here. If you would like to purchase this for this child, please contact us at info@opacc.org for their mailing address]

My son was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma in October of this year. Born at 25 weeks, he has had so many medical issues throughout his 8 years. This is a challenging time for my family, but we are optimistic. Our faith has been tested but this too shall pass.

Isobel was diagnosed with Leukemia at age 5 on November 9, 2023. This was the day our entire family's lives changed forever. Isobel was rushed by ambulance to SickKids from our hometown in Peterborough, ON. She was sepsis and contracted RVS and MRSA, making this a life threatening situation. The next 3 weeks she spent in PICU intubated, and then inpatient until Christmas. We were required to continue living at RMCH due to treatment requirements until April 2024, where we were finally able to bring her home. Isobel has continued to face significant challenges and gains throughout this year spending her birthday hospitalized in June and a few more admission at SickKids and Peterborough. Without SickKids Isobel would not have been here today. Isobel is a bright and strong spirit who has taught all of us strength and courage. She is caring and always thinking of others. Isobel will continue treatment until January 17, 2026, when we hope and pray her cancer will be resolved.

When Bentley was 18 months old he was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. After two separate brain surgeries, the surgeons were only able to remove just over half of the tumour. The location of the tumour makes it impossible to completely remove as it is wrapped around vital vessels in his brain that if touched, could cause severe impairment.Bentley has had months of chemotherapy in an attempt to shrink the tumour, but unfortunately it continues to slowly grow and cause debilitating symptoms. These symptoms include multiple daily seizures which are increasing in frequency, fainting, behavioral issues, learning difficulties, lethargy, sleep disturbances, and decreased mobility. On top of the devastating brain tumour diagnosis, Bentley has also been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, epilepsy, ADHD, and sleep disorders. As a single mom raising 3 young boys under 9 years old in this ever rising economy, it is increasingly difficult to afford day to day expenses and other essentials for mom Taylor and the kids. All of Taylor's time and resources are for being a full time Mom at home looking after the kids without the ability to work.

Ben was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 8. He recently completed two and a half years of treatment with many complications along the way. Ben is looking forward to a Christmas off of treatment this year, spent at home with his family by his side. Ben loves Lego, sports, video games and hanging out with his three brothers. Merry Christmas!

At 2 years old, Ryan was diagnosed with Leukemia and was immediately flown to London (600 km from home) for an intensive course of chemotherapy that lasted ten months. He is now back home, in remission, and undergoing maintenance chemotherapy and frequent lumbar punctures back in London. Ryan is now 4 years old, he is a fighter and our superhero, and has been surrounded by the love of his family throughout his journey. He inspires us and gives us so much happiness. We are grateful for every day with him.

Edward got a Germinoma brain tumour last year. He was critical at SickKids Hospital in December 2023. We celebrated Christmas in the hospital, but a miracle came on Christmas day when his energy came back and the spirit of Christmas filled his hospital room. This Christmas will be 1 year for him after he did a lot of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. We never forgot that moment when we could celebrate a simple Christmas at the hospital.

April was diagnosed with Infant Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia a week before she turned 6 months old. It was at the beginning of COVID. April faced many challenges during her treatment because she was so small at the time, i.e. severe side effects from chemotherapy treatment and infection. We isolated from our immediate family for a while to keep April safe. April also has an older brother. April is now finished her treatment and thriving. She just started junior kindergarten this past September. She loves Christmas!

Rachel was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma brain cancer three days after her 8th Birthday. Since that life-changing day, she has had multiple brain surgeries, 8 weeks of full radiation to her brain and spine, many years of chemotherapy, a secondary growth on her thyroid 3 years ago, and now battling stage 3 liver disease along with a cyst in her pancreas. Our warrior girl has been hit with every single after-effect of the life-saving treatments, playing havoc on her small body and having to see her medical team of 23 specialists many days through the year. This journey has been a long road that affects the whole family. Your new ""normal" can be a difficult road to travel. We keep putting one foot in front of the other, stick together and take it hour by hour. We would like to wish our OPACC families a Merry Christmas and send Christmas Blessings to each one!