Being a mom was one of my biggest and most fantasized dreams. I dreamt and yearned for all things motherhood: the cute cravings that come with pregnancy, the stress of chauffeuring my children from one practice to the next, the hectic yet fun family road trips, the laughter, the milestones, and the dreams I’d watch them chase. But nothing prepared me for the day when a doctor uttered the words, Your child has cancer.
A Devastating Diagnosis
When my son RJ was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, he was only two years old. In about a month, RJ developed a lump in his cheek. After weeks of being misdiagnosed, an ENT took one look at him and knew exactly what it was: cancer. I remember everything about the day he was diagnosed; the way my stomach did flips as I held on to each word the doctor said, the pale green color on the walls and the look of sadness on the nurse’s face. As I listened to her speak, I felt as though I had been thrust into a nightmare I couldn’t wake up from. I remember holding RJ’s tiny hand, looking into his innocent eyes, and wondering how on earth we were going to get through this. How could someone so small, so full of life, be facing something so terrifying?
There were days I didn’t know how I’d muster the strength to get out of bed, let alone be the pillar RJ needed me to be. But being a mom means finding that strength, even when you think you have nothing left to give. It means holding your child close, wiping their tears, and telling them that it’s going to be okay, even when you’re not sure yourself. It was truly my husband, family, community and faith in the Lord that got me through what we call the “early days” of chemotherapy.
I watched as RJ’s childhood was stolen by hospital visits, treatments, and the constant battle against something no child should ever have to face. But in the midst of this darkness, I saw something extraordinary: RJ’s spirit. Despite everything, he remained so full of life, so determined to fight. He taught me more about courage and resilience than I could ever have imagined.
Finding Community
In the midst of our darkest days, when the weight of RJ’s battle felt overwhelming, we found a lifeline: a local nonprofit, Candlelighters. This incredible organization became a beacon of hope for our family. They stepped in and held our hands when we didn’t know where to turn. From the very beginning, they were there, providing emotional and practical support, offering a shoulder to cry on, weekly parking passes in the medical center, and most importantly: community.
Candlelighters became our extended family, walking with us through every step of RJ’s journey. They connected us with other families who understood the pain, fear, and exhaustion we were feeling. Through support groups, special events, and the incredible compassion of their Parent Consultants, they helped us see that even amid our struggle, there was a community ready to lift us up.
How You Can Help Childhood Cancer Awareness
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and during this time our family chooses to support organizations like Candlelighters. On September 7th, 2024 Candlelighters will host their annual Fun Walk at Terry Hershey Park. This Fun Walk is essential to many of the programs they offer daily for childhood cancer families including, hospital parking assistance, meal passes, groceries, gas cards and so much more. They offer their services free of charge to families, like ours, and therefore rely heavily on the generosity of the Houston community.
Celebration and Gratitude
On January 7th, 2024, RJ rang the bell signifying he had completed his 66 weeks of chemotherapy and 28 rounds of radiation to his face and neck. Today, he is a rambunctious preschooler who enjoys fishing, cheering on the Astros, and eating BBQ.
So, as we continue to celebrate our son’s victory over cancer, we also celebrate organizations like Candlelighters, who give so much support to local families. Let us support them in their mission to bring light into the lives of families battling childhood cancer, and let us never underestimate the power of a community united in love and compassion. I am forever thankful for those who stood by, prayed and supported our entire family during such a challenging time.
About Ebony London
Ebony is a dedicated mother from Houston, Texas, and a passionate advocate for childhood cancer awareness. After her son RJ’s victorious battle against cancer, she has made it her mission to support other families facing similar challenges. Ebony creates inspiring content centered around motherhood, faith, and resilience, empowering others to find hope in their darkest moments.
