The first time Vikki knew something was wrong with her daughter Penelope was in October 2019. Penelope’s eyes were glazed over. Just days later, Vikki noticed the same expression, but this time, Penelope was dribbling and her speech had dramatically slowed. Sadly, following agonising trips to the hospital and tortuous waiting, an MRI scan revealed a tumour on the left side of Penelope’s brain which later was found to be cancerous. Now, two years on and following a harrowing but remarkable journey, Vikki, 43, tells Penelope’s story.
How you helped Vikki, Penelope and her family:
When Lasting Memories heard about Vikki and her family’s case and the journey they had been on since their daughter Penelope’s cancer diagnosis aged only two, it was determined to help.
Vikki picks up her story:
“Fundamentally, our family has changed. I don’t think things will ever be quite the same again, and you do grieve for your old carefree life. But, now I don’t sweat the small stuff so much and it’s made me appreciate the little things more.
I’m so proud of us for getting through the past few years, but it’s been tough on everyone. Not just Penelope, Steve and I, but Sully too. The amount of times I promised Sully a trip out which was cast aside because of Penelope’s illness. Which is why we were touched when Lasting Memories offered to help fund and organise a holiday or trip for our family.
Just the thought of planning a trip feels exhausting after everything. We’re also not keen to spend any of our savings, just in case Penelope gets sick again and I have to put work back on hold for a second time.
Sadly, coronavirus kept putting a stop to the holiday dream, so we thought of a new idea to cheer us up – decorating the kid’s rooms. It’s something we’ve wanted to do for years and haven’t had the energy, time or money to do.
‘Penelope’s room is still Sully’s old room, so it’s hardly a little girl’s dream bedroom. Whilst Sully’s room hasn’t changed since he was four-years-old.
With Lasting Memories’ help, Sully was so keen to get involved and he had loads of ideas, so we created a mood board and designed his new bedroom together.
Penelope had less opinions on her new room. So as long as it got a fresh lick of paint and it had lots of her favourite colour orange in there, I knew she’d be happy.
And it’s really worked wonders – signaling a fresh start for her and for us all.”