Joy Adalia
The family also faces the possibility that little Ella will also be diagnosed with the same cancer, especially because her twin sister has it; the probability is at around 25%. The heartbroken mom wishes that if Ella is set to face the same condition, that it manifest itself now so the three siblings could go through the same obstacles together.
“I feel like I’m already preparing myself for Ella to get leukemia. But I’m like, if she’s going to be diagnosed, give it to us now, let them go through this together. I’m ready to stop checking no to RSVP birthday cards. I want my kids to socialize with other kids and live normally, not in fear.”
Of course, they are also hoping that Ella won’t receive the same diagnosis, but if worse comes to worst, at least they would be all in this together. Still, they are monitoring Ella for signs, including for bruises and fatigue.
But the family continues to stay positive, says Lacey.
“We’ll get through this. We’re just a goofy family – we make forts and have Frozen dance parties and karaoke nights. We love to laugh. It sucks that we have to incorporate cancer into our lives, but we sure as hell are going to do it with a smile.”
Associate Division Chief at Nemours Children’s Specialty Care in Jacksonville Dr. Scott Bradfield admitted they were caught off-guard with the diagnosis as they have limited experience of siblings developing the same type of cancer. The group is now trying to determine what could have caused the condition to manifest in the kids; though it is possible that this is just a “horrible coincidence” that might have a genetic basis.
The community is raising funds for the siblings, launching the #SmithStrong campaign.
Source: People Magazine
