Mrs. Leung
(Camper Yuki Leung’s mother)

I am Yuki Leung’s mom. In November 1999, when Yuki was 5 and half, the doctor confirmed that Yuki had neuroblastoma, a type of cancer. At that moment, I felt so terrified and anxious. It was a feeling I have never experienced before.

How could a small child possibly have to endure so much pain and suffering? I told myself that I had to accept the truth and move on. We then began the long and lengthy treatment process at the Prince of Wales hospital. As my husband was a driver, it was extremely difficult for him to take time off work so the responsibility to take care of our daughter lay with me.

During the treatment process, which included chemotherapy, radiotherapy, bone marrow transplant and more, Yuki experienced much pain, especially during her chemotherapy. My only hope was that it would be over soon and we could leave the hospital.

It was only after she had her bone marrow transplant that the discomfort of the therapy was overcome and Yuki’ s condition stabilized. I began to have hope, thinking to myself that the nightmare was finally over. How wrong I was. In January 2002, the doctor told me that Yuki had relapsed. That moment, my mind went completely blank. I felt like something had cut deep into me, I hugged my daughter and cried helplessly.

The doctor confirmed to us that even with further treatment the chances of survival were slim. Therefore a decision had to be made as to whether we would continue a new course of therapy. I knew that whatever we decided I just did not want to add to her pain. Finally, after much deliberation and hesitation, we made a decision to stop treatment completely. This was the most difficult decision I have ever made. We wanted Yuki to have some quality of life outside the hospital ward, we wanted her to be happy amongst friends and do things, which children at her age should have an opportunity to do and experience. My only wish is that the very best will be blessed upon her. Since this decision was made, whatever happens, we will just leave it in the hands of fate.

There are so many people who have helped Yuki and me, who I would like to thank.

Firstly, all the staff and volunteers at Camp Quality Hong Kong, for letting me share my thoughts and experience. For giving Yuki so much more in life, letting her experience life to the fullest and giving her undying love and affection, I am extremely grateful to you all.

Thanks to all the medical staff at the Prince of Wales hospital for their constant care and attention of Yuki.

Thanks to all my colleagues at work, they are some of the kindest people I have ever met. Thanks go to my parents for giving me support and telling me not to give up no matter what. Thanks to my family, without their support it would be impossible to carry on, especially my in-laws for taking care of my other two children while I cared for Yuki.

Finally I have to thank my daughter Yuki. Even though she lost her childhood, she has never given up on life. Her determination and courage, words can not convey. Even through periods of darkness, she managed to find light and happiness in her own way. I wish only the best for her.