SickKids Kid Kael Hasn't Lost Heart
Today is Saturday, December 6 and this is seven-year-old Kael’s 395th day living away from family and friends. Born with a rare immune-deficiency disorder called Stat 1 Mutation, Kael received a bone marrow transplant in November of 2013 and has had to call, first, SickKids and now Ronald McDonald House Toronto his home for over a year.It has been a long and challenging journey for Kael and his parents, Emily and Andrew. Because of the rarity of his condition, he was not diagnosed until the age of five. Upon diagnosis, Emily and Andrew were given the difficult news that Kael was unlikely to live past 12 years of age. Devastated, they knew that they had to do whatever they could to try and give him more time in hopes that a cure could be found.
His best chance of living a longer life was a bone marrow transplant and, luckily, a donor match was found in his younger brother.
Kael plays baseball
Throughout his time in hospital, staff have rallied around Kael and his family. One of Kael’s favourite past times is planning fun activities for the staff and others on the floor. He designated dress up days at SickKids such as jersey day, superhero day, Halloween day and a pajama party, just to name a few. He also planned treasure hunts, piñata parties, baking taste tests and a tattoo parlour. He also loves trivia, surveys and riddles and often challenged any staff who came to the room to participate in a daily quiz.
"He has faced unbelievable challenges, some which adults would have a difficult time handling."
Kael’s nurse team on 8B from the Bone Marrow Transplant/Immunology Ward brings incredible energy and support to the Morrison family. Every hundredth day Kael spent in the hospital, they arranged a celebration for him. On his 100th day they wrote a few songs for him, which they sang at his bedside to the tune of ‘Happy’ by Pharrell. On his 200th day the team presented him with a book of messages reading ‘Kael is special because…’
The Paediatric Advanced Care Team (PACT) and physiotherapists also hold a special place in the Morrison’s heart as they work tirelessly to improve Kael’s quality of life and help him grow stronger.
The most difficult aspect for Kael’s family has been the isolation. “Kael was kept away from his siblings for six months, and even now only sees them about once a month,” said Emily. “He misses them dearly.” During his six months in reverse isolation, he was not allowed to see anyone other than his mom, dad and nurses. Everyone had to wear protective gear when they visited with him, so that meant no skin-to-skin hugs or kisses from mom and dad.
But through all the challenges – losing weight, losing strength, re-learning to walk, being isolated – Kael hasn’t lost heart.
"He has faced unbelievable challenges, some which adults would have a difficult time handling” said Emily. “And yet, he manages to come out the other side with his head held high. He still asks others how they are doing, asks about their families and takes the time to listen and try and help. He just keeps giving."
