A second chance: Rebecca’s Story

I was 43 years old and five months pregnant when I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

I was terrified. The doctors now faced the challenge of saving two lives: my life and the life of my unborn child.

My team of medical experts included an oncologist, a gynecologist, a surgeon, and a radiologist. They frequently met to determine which treatment path would give us the best chance to have the family we had always dreamed of. I was confident that I was in the best hands.

So, when the decision was made to deliver the baby at 27 weeks by C-Section, I knew it was the best option to give my baby and myself a fighting chance. The plan was clear: once I recovered from the surgery, radiation would begin to shrink my tumour so they could operate to remove it.

William was born weighing under 2 pounds. He was cared for by the fantastic NICU team for three months as I began treatment and eventually underwent surgery.

The JGH made two of our dreams come true! William grew healthier by the day, and my surgery was successful. The JGH doctors were able to remove the cancer.

I am just one example of the incredible life-saving miracles that happen every day at the JGH. I owe it to my dedicated medical team, who cared for my family like we were their own.

I’ve learned that this is largely possible because of generous donors like YOU.

Your donations help families like mine have a second chance. Your donations fund scientific breakthroughs and innovation. They also ensure the best medical experts are available when we need them most.

Today, my son William is two years old. He is a bubbly little kid with a great personality!

I feel so much gratitude for the team at the JGH and the countless donors like you who support the Hospital.

Please give generously to the JGH annual Fund, so they can continue to perform miracles. Donations are invested in the Hospital’s most urgent priorities, like cancer research, the Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit, surgical equipment, and world-class medical experts.

You have the power to save lives. I am proof of that! Please give today.

With my family’s heartfelt gratitude,

Rebecca, JGH Patient