For the past eight months the Conways have experienced an ordeal that no family is ever prepared for.
In October 2014 two-year-old Evan Conway was diagnosed with leukemia. He has been receiving treatments at McMaster Hospital in Hamilton that are expected to continue for over two years.
The Drayton youngster recently reached a milestone in his treatments. On July 9, he received his 60th and final leg injection.
The family celebrated by throwing a back yard party for family and close friends.
Treatments continue on a weekly basis, with Evan receiving chemotherapy in his chest port and finger pokes for blood testing. Spinal taps are done every nine weeks and oral medications are taken daily at home.
“He has good weeks and bad weeks,” said Evan’s mother Maggie.
“During good weeks he has more energy and wants to play with his siblings. When he doesn’t feel well, he is content to watch TV and rest.”
Since turning three, Evan has become more aware of what is happening to him and hospital visits have become routine.
The family has to be extremely careful with where they take him and who can be around him, avoiding anyone who is or has recently been sick. Hand sanitizer and frequent hand washing keeps him safe from bacteria and germs that potentially could make him ill.
Evan’s immune system is very weak.
A common cold lasts twice as long as an average child’s. If he contracts a fever, an emergency trip is made to McMaster hospital to check for infections.
“We want to thank everyone again for everything they have done for us,” said Maggie Conway.
“We feel truly blessed to be surrounded by such a caring and thoughtful community.”
Monetary donations to help cover the family’s expenses can be made at the Drayton Branch of the Royal Bank, at www.gofundme.com, or on Facebook – gofundme-Evan Conway’s Family Ray of Hope.
