The distinct sound of a bell ringing cut through the daily noise of Logan Hospital’s Children’s Ward marking a significant moment in time for little Ash Saunders.
The sound brought smiles to the faces of those nearby who knew this could only mean one thing: another child had finished their cancer treatment.
Together with his Oncology Nurse Candace, five-year-old Ash rang the bell with all his might celebrating the end of two and half years of chemotherapy.
In a heart-warming speech, Ash's mum Nataasha referred to her son’s care team as her second family, thanking them for their unwavering dedication and support.
"Our nurses, doctors, pharmacists, physios and occupational therapists all see us at our absolute worst. They are truly amazing people," she said.
Since being diagnosed with B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in February 2022, Ash has received more than 800 rounds of chemotherapy.
On top of this, he has endured countless blood tests, lost his hair and spent more time in hospital than at home, but Nataasha said her son still found a way to smile and play.
"Ash has always been a miracle and a fighter," she said.
"I was told my whole life that I couldn't have children due to endometriosis, but after two rounds of IVF we were blessed with our miracle baby," she said.
Ash received his final dose of chemotherapy on 12 April, which also happened to be Nataasha's birthday.
With his cancer treatment complete, Ash and his family said they were looking forward to starting their healing journey and moving on to the next chapter of their lives.
Congratulations on ringing the bell Ash. We wish you all the very best.
Nataasha has documented her raw and unfiltered journey on social media, in the hopes of raising awareness about childhood cancer. You can follow the blog on facebook.