In her two yrs, 10 months life, Olivia rarely let life get her down. Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at just 5 weeks of age, she underwent eight months of chemotherapy, during which time she rarely complained. The treatment was a success and she was declared in remission. Sadly two months later the cancer returned and a choice had to be made, further more aggressive chemotherapy, followed by a bone marrow transplant or let her go peacefully.
It was decided she deserved another
chance and the treatment commenced. The second treatment of chemotherapy was successful and she was sent to Bristol Childrens Hospital for the bone marrow transplant. After many many set backs, including an operation, for which she was given only a 5% chance of survival, a part of her stomach was removed. After 5 months she returned home and the family hoped the battle had ended and life could return to normal.
Following several return visits to the Piam Brown Childrens Cancer Ward, due to various infections and other illnesses, it looked like she was on the mend. Sadly, it was not to be and following a mini stroke leading to a severe bleed of the brain, there was no choice but to let her go.
Tribute should be paid to both the families of Andrew, her devoted dad and Katie, her adoring mother, for the huge commitment, time and devotion given over those short years. Not forgetting her beloved sister, Jasmine, who passed from family to family, never knowing from one day to the next where she was sleeping, who was taking her and picking her up from school. Never a complaint and always smiling.
She will be remembered by the hundred of people whe met her at fundraising events, read of her progress in the newspapers, or saw her on television. Nobody can forget that cheeky little grin she gave and she will be missed by all.
Although she did not finally die of cancer; the drugs, tubes and lines that had kept her alive, were now to lead to her death.
Now in the sky, she twinkles down on us and always will.