Together for Patrick

Hi, my name is Heather, and I am a close family friend of Martin, Anita, Patrick and Joseph.

Like you, I was heartbroken when I heard of Patrick's life-threatening diagnosis and the impact his illness and treatment will now have on the family.

Only eight weeks ago, Patrick was a bright and happy young boy, loving life and his whole future ahead of him. On Wednesday, 16th August 2023, his life changed forever as he was diagnosed with a high-grade malignant brain tumour (brain cancer).

In the weeks leading up to his diagnosis, Patrick showed no neurological symptoms except for occasional nausea - typically first thing in the morning. Closer to the scan date and following a short family holiday, Patrick grew increasingly tired and lethargic. Various medical appointments identified the decline in his strength as growing pains or a possible viral infection. When Patrick said he could see two of everything, the family took him directly to their local A&E. The medical team requested a CT Scan and found a large tumour in his brain.

Upon finding the tumour, Patrick was sent directly to Alder Hey Children's Hospital and placed under the care of the neurological team. Within 48 hours, Patrick was in surgery, and he endured a six-hour operation, which left him with vision issues, a weakened side of the body, and severe vomiting.

Patrick now faces nine months of intensive radiotherapy and chemotherapy across various hospitals, including Liverpool and Manchester. His treatment itself has to be highly intensive because the brain is excellent at defending itself, which results in a significant increase in both the practical and emotional support that Anita and Martin need to provide.

Patrick requires help with hospital appointments, unpleasant procedures, central line care, careful administration and monitoring of his medicines, feeding via a peg, which needs attention several times overnight, and constant vigilance regarding his health. Patrick is immunosuppressed and at risk of developing infections which are potentially life-threatening. The demands made on Anita and Martin by Patrick's condition are total while he is undergoing treatment, and this will continue to be the case for a considerable amount of time after treatment is complete.

It's hard to imagine how Anita, Martin and Joseph must feel as they see Patrick suffer from sickness, pain, exhaustion, and dramatic changes to his body in addition to the numerous invasive procedures and investigations. Patrick himself has shown an incredible amount of bravery, resilience, strength and positivity – saying that he wanted to "get this done" so he could return to the things he loves most – his classmates, music lessons, football team and everyday life at home with Mum, Dad, and Joseph.

Anita and Martin are dedicated parents who are juggling home life alongside managing numerous planned and unplanned hospital visits, and Anita herself is responding to Patrick's high care needs and unpredictable symptoms. Family life is challenging, exhausting, and stressful. We've all seen the strength of the Cahill family as they've banded together to ensure Patrick receives the best treatment and care while trying to keep life as normal as possible for Joseph back home in Croston.

It's a long road ahead for the family, and with this comes enormous financial difficulties, as understandably, Anita and Martin's time and energy will be solely focused on Patrick and getting him well again. The love and support from family, friends and colleagues means the world to Anita and Martin, and so many have asked what more they can do to support them.

Funds raised through this effort will help offset a loss of income as they focus on what's most important – supporting Patrick through his treatment and taking care of their family – and the additional costs associated with that care, including the cost of travel, bills, accommodation, and amendments at home.

I am reaching out to anyone who can make a donation to help support Anita, Martin, Patrick and Joseph. The love and support from friends and family near and far will get them through this.

All donations are greatly appreciated and will go directly to Patrick - his treatment, care, support, and an overwhelming desire to get better. Please feel free to share this link with those who want help.

Heather x