Mum shares horror after eight-month-old baby diagnosed with rare cancer

Typical symptoms mistaken for teething

A mum has spoken out about her horror after her eight-month-old baby was diagnosed with a rare type of blood and bone marrow cancer. Ashley Beauregard, 33, initially thought her son Aiden was just fussy and teething after a family holiday, but she grew concerned when he appeared pale and acted fussier than normal.

Rare cancer diagnosis

Aiden was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), a rare type of blood and bone marrow cancer, in March 2022. Despite undergoing numerous procedures, including a bone marrow transfer, Aiden's condition is complicated by a genetic mutation that increases the likelihood of relapse.

Warning signs

Ashley shared the "typical" symptoms her son experienced before the diagnosis, including a cough, prolonged sickness, paleness, and being fussy and irritable. These factors can often be mistaken for less serious illnesses, making the detection of leukaemia challenging.

Challenging treatments

Aiden has undergone multiple treatments, including CAR-T immunotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, but unfortunately, they have not been successful. He is now dealing with graft versus host disease, a condition in which the donated cells attack the recipient's body.

Every moment counts

Ashley and her husband Marcus are focused on cherishing every moment with Aiden and their eldest son. The experience has changed their perspective on parenting and finding joy in the mundane. Despite the challenges, Aiden remains happy and full of joy, although he has been through more than most children his age.

Raising awareness for childhood cancer

Ashley and her family are determined to raise awareness for childhood cancer and improve treatment options. They believe that research for childhood cancer is severely underfunded and that more treatment options are needed. Despite the difficulties, Aiden has made a difference in people's lives and brought families closer together.