Freya's story

This page has been established for Freya Pearson and her parents, Mark and Vicky, in order to help the family through an incredibly difficult time and give them some support and something to look forward to at the end of her intense treatment, perhaps a holiday or experience during rehabilitation.

Freya was born on New Year's Eve 2004. In her early years, Vicky and Mark recognised that Freya wasn't reaching her developmental milestones. A few years later Freya was identified as having complex learning disabilities and diagnosed with A.D.H.D, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Sensory processing difficulties, Speech and language issues and a Global Developmental Delay. Which, amongst other things, shortens her attention span and makes it difficult for her to learn and to manage her emotions.

Freya's mum and dad, Vicky and Mark, like any loving parents, have sought to adjust their lives to give her the best opportunities that they can.  She remained in mainstream education for as long as possible and then they fought to get her into her current school, the Mendip School, a specialist school for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders and Language and Social Communication Needs. They have always worked hard to provide a nurturing environment for her to grow and learn.  

In December 2018 Freya hurt her knee in a fall, the way kids often do.  Unfortunately the pain did not go away and in February 2019 she was diagnosed with cancerous tumour within the bone in and around her knee (High Grade Osteosarcoma). 

Freya's treatment began immediately and has involved intensive chemotherapy and major surgery to replace her knee, including part of her upper and lower leg.  The chemotherapy treatment will continue until  October/November.  This is continually being pushed back as a result of complications associated with chemotherapy side effects.

This would be difficult for any child to cope with, and Freya has been amazing, though those that know her understand what a challenge this is for Freya and her parents. 

Such is the intensity of the treatment, coupled with Freya's condition, both Vicky and Mark need to be on hand all of the times.  Mark is a self employed handyman and has been unable to work since the diagnosis in January 2019. 

Many friends of Vicky and Mark have felt rather helpless but little things count for a lot.  For example, get well messages and short visits when possible, go down very well.  

A number of friends have expressed that they would like to help and support this amazing family at this incredibly difficult time, so if you consider that you would like to contribute, you can do so via this page.  Any gift via the site will be received by Mark's sister on behalf of Freya and the family.