Luka Strong

JOIN US IN LIGHTING THE NIGHT TO DEFEAT BLOOD CANCER!

Dear Luka Strong Supporters,

I am thrilled to have been asked to be London's 2024’s Honoured Hero. I don’t feel like a hero, but this is part of my story.

In the early days of September 2022, I was a 14 year old boy from Ilderton Ontario. I was excitedly preparing to be a grade 9 student at Medway High School, and I was enjoying every second of the summer holidays. My symptoms began early one morning as abdominal pain that was so intense we called the ambulance. The paramedics took me to Children’s Hospital in London Ontario where they admitted me for believed appendicitis. When I was not improving with treatment, losing weight, and in a lot of pain, testing continued. After a long list of tests, and lots of consultations, they determined that I had Burkitt Lymphoma, a type of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. It's a fast-growing form of blood cancer that was attacking my white blood cells. This cancer was aggressive, so my medical team had to be more aggressive.

At the time, those days were so long, and incredibly difficult. It seemed like my battle was never going to end – active chemo days, recovery days, lumbar punctures, blood transfusions, platelet transfusions, NG feeds and numerous fevers. Hearing about my friends loving high school and playing hockey, and then spending Thanksgiving and Christmas in the hospital was really tough. My family and friends tried to make the good days good and allowed me to rest on those days that I could barely move. Now looking back, my time fighting Burkett’s went by so quick. It is now just an unforgettable part of my life story, but one that I have learned so many things from.

During my 5 months in the hospital, something amazing happened. Multiple organizations and people from my community came together to support me and my family. It was seriously overwhelming. One day, we saw a flyer in the hospital about LLSC (Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada) and their upcoming Light The Night event. Just three weeks later, about 150 of my family and friends gathered outside my hospital room window with bright red lanterns. It was such a powerful moment, not just for me, but for all the other patients, families, and even the medical staff that got to witness this as well. The love and support we felt that night was something else.

Now, I'm in a much better place, and I want to pass on that feeling of support to others. I'm honored and proud to be able to do that. When life throws you a curveball, it's the people around you who make all the difference. They're the ones who light up the dark times and make everything seem a little bit brighter. So, even when things get tough, remember that there's always someone out there who's got your back. I have learned that even in the hardest moments, there's a glimmer of hope. So, to anyone out there who's going through a tough time (cancer patient, family member or friend) hang in there. Lean on the people who care about you, and don't be afraid to let them in. You're not alone, and there's a whole lot of love and support waiting for you. Keep shining your light and remember that you're stronger than you think.

In honour of Luka's remarkable journey, and to stand in solidarity with all those who have been affected by blood cancer, we are participating in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada's annual fundraiser, Light The Night.  This year’s event will be taking place on Saturday, September 28, 2024 in Victoria Park, London.  This event aims not only to raise funds, but also to raise awareness about the urgent need for research to find cures and to ensure equitable access to treatments for all blood cancer patients.

Blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma affect countless lives every year.  The journey that Luka and his family has been through has highlighted the importance of ongoing research, improved treatments, and support for patients and their families.  By participating and/or donating to Light The Night, we are helping Luka and people like Luka. Your support means the world to us and to everyone who is fighting or has fought against blood cancer.  Let's come together and make a positive change in the lives of those who need it.

Thank you for considering our request.  Let's Light The Night and illuminate the path toward a future free from blood cancer.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Luka and Aunt Sheri