Navigating the Journey of Two Critically Ill Children
For April, the diagnosis of a blood disorder for not just one, but both of her sons, was a life-altering moment. “When I first received the diagnosis, the wind was taken from my sails,” she recalls. “I felt rudderless and heavy with fear, anxiety, and grief.” Coming to terms with this reality was a process, one that required therapy and the strength to let go of the life she had envisioned for her sons, Hudson, 13, and Harrison, 10. Instead, she embraced an uncertain path, filled with challenges but also moments of resilience and hope.
The challenges of caring for medically complex children are immense. From navigating knowledge gaps to the isolation that comes with opting out of social events for her sons’ safety, April has faced it all. Long hospital stays, sleepless nights, and the emotional toll of being her children’s solid foundation weigh heavily on her and her husband Craig. “If I could take away my children’s pain, their fear, their condition, I would,” she says. To cope, April has found solace in dance classes, singing, and therapy. She emphasizes the importance of allowing herself time to process after challenging moments, creating space to freely express her emotions at home, and reaching out for support whenever needed.
Amidst the struggles, there are bright spots—moments of connection and community.
Harrison and Hudson’s wishes were meaningful for the entire family. In 2022, Harrison’s wish for a West Edmonton Mall shopping excursion brought joy and excitement, while Hudson’s wish to visit his favourite theme park in 2023 was an unforgettable opportunity for the family to reconnect and spend quality time together. “If our family created a security blanket, to wrap themselves in during the tough times ahead, their wishes would be a part of the very fabric,” April shared. “This blanket would continue to provide the hope, the warmth and the miraculous energy that their wishes provided.”
The family’s gratitude has inspired them to give back to Make-A-Wish. April has shared her sons’ medical journeys at various events, and the entire family has actively participated in and supported these occasions. “We jump at volunteering and fundraising opportunities to help the organization continue to make this world a brighter place for children with a critical illness and their families,” April explains. For her sons, this involvement fosters pride and connection.
If April could have her own wish, it would be for every child with a critical illness to have their wish granted. “Knowing the transformative power of a wish, who wouldn’t want to help make that happen?”
Through resilience, community, and a profound sense of hope, April’s journey reminds us of the enduring impact of wishes on families facing life’s toughest challenges.
