Two months following the loss of her son, a mother bravely opened up on social media about the last days of her four-year-old’s life. After reading her poignant post, you may find it difficult to let go of your children for even a moment.
In a heartfelt message shared on the “NolanStrong” Facebook page she established to highlight her son’s battle, Emily Thompson recounted the journey of her son, “Liam,” who was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of soft tissue cancer, at just three years old. Tragically, he passed away on February 4th. It took time for Emily to gather her thoughts and express her feelings regarding his final moments, and the resulting post is profoundly moving.
Sharing Liam’s Last Days
In her entry, Emily expressed her desire to share about Liam’s last days, emphasizing how they were filled with love and warmth. “I’ve wanted to write about Liam’s final moments for some time now. His last few days illuminated just how special he was. He embodied pure love. This may be a lengthy read, but please stay with me; it’s a pain unlike any other.”
As you read her words, it’s evident how challenging it was for her to articulate these experiences. She recounted the heartrending moment when Liam told her he was fighting for her, to which she gently reassured him that it was okay to let go.
Me: Sweetheart, this cancer is tough. You don’t need to fight anymore.
Liam: (Radiating happiness) I DON’T??!! But I will for you, Mommy!!
Me: No, sweetheart! Is that what you’ve been doing? Fighting for Mommy?
Liam: Well, DUH!!
Me: Liam, what is Mommy’s job?
Liam: To keep me SAFE! (With a big grin)
Me: Honey… I can’t do that anymore here. The only way to keep you safe is in Heaven. (My heart breaking)
Liam: Sooooo I’ll just go to Heaven and play until you come! You will come, right?
Me: Absolutely!! You can’t get rid of Mommy that easily!
Liam: Thank you, Mommy!!! I’ll play with my friends up there!
Just a day or two after enjoying their time together, including watching cartoons and discussing his funeral wishes, Liam passed away. But he left his mother with one last precious gift. “My angel took a breath, opened his eyes, smiled at me and said ‘I love you Mommy’ before turning his head away. At 11:54 PM, Liam passed as I sang ‘You are My Sunshine’ in his ear. He woke from a coma to say he loved me with a smile on his face!”
Raising Awareness
The emotional weight of her post is nearly unbearable, and the courage it took to endure such a tragedy, as well as to share their final moments, is unfathomable. Emily’s motivation for sharing this experience is clear. She aims to raise awareness about the critical gaps in childhood cancer research and treatment. Each year, nearly 100,000 children under 15 lose their lives to cancer, as reported by the City of Hope cancer center.
“Sadly, because of childhood cancer—specifically Rhabdomyosarcoma—the world will miss out on someone so full of love. We MUST do better with funding, research, and treatment options.” Liam was just one of many children whose dreams, including his aspiration to become a police officer, will never be realized. Alongside his mother, whose heartfelt post has gone viral, they are raising awareness about such devastating stories.
Emily concluded her post with a touching photo, explaining how Liam would snuggle on the bath mat while she showered. “Now I’m the one scared to shower, with just an empty rug where my perfect little boy once waited for me.”
Support for Emily
For those who wish to support Emily as she navigates this difficult journey, donations can be made through Liam’s GoFundMe page. In times like these, it’s essential to bring attention to the resources available for families facing similar challenges. For more on home insemination and related topics, check out this insightful article on what to expect during your first IUI. If you’re looking for a reliable home insemination kit, consider this option from an authority in the field, or explore additional resources at this blog.
In summary, Emily’s tribute to her son Liam reveals the profound love and grief experienced by families dealing with childhood cancer. Her story shines a light on the urgent need for improved funding and research in this area, while also encouraging support for those affected.