I informed her school, though initially, they didn’t believe us. However, when I showed them the reports, they understood. I made sure to inform every teacher and the principal to let us know if they noticed any changes in her or if she needed any help. None of her friends knew about her illness. I gave her a mobile phone to use, with instructions to switch it off during class, so she can call us if anything urgent arises. I ensured that she was never left alone, yet she continued to live a normal life. I didn’t want her to experience the fear of cancer, like the sleepless nights I endured.
Honestly, we had no savings left. But I was determined to give my daughter the treatment she deserved. It was then that Ramya started a fundraiser on Milaap, which turned out to be our lifeline during the challenging times, especially with my husband unable to work due to the pandemic.
What made it even more challenging was the absence of anyone outside of my immediate family to confide in about my daughter’s illness. However, Ramya kept me updated on the donations and the prayers pouring in from kind strangers.
We chose to keep our struggles hidden even from our closest family friends, shielding my child from judgment, but it is incredible how strangers stepped up to support us through their contributions. Each donation felt like a warm embrace, providing me with the strength to carry on.