\n<\/p>\n
The boy had a deep fear of \u201cthe feeling of going to sleep\u201d, so Ho and the medical team came up with a plan for him to stay conscious<\/span>\u00a0<\/strong>and have the father read stories through the intercom or play music.<\/span><\/p>\n Ho also taught the child how to play statue games to practise \u201cgetting familiar with staying still\u201d and coached the parents on what to say during the treatment sessions.<\/span><\/p>\n For example, they should make reassuring statements like \u201cI can see you\u201d, or \u201cYou\u2019re staying still very well\u201d rather than ask questions like \u201cAre you okay?\u201d that might prompt him to respond and shift position, said Ho.<\/span><\/p>\n The young patient was able to complete numerous radiotherapy sessions successfully without anaesthesia.<\/span><\/p>\n Over the years, the therapist journeyed with the family through the highs and lows. Even as his condition worsened, Ho recalled that his spirit never dimmed.<\/span><\/p>\n Towards the end of his life, he created treasure hunts in the hospital ward, filling it with joy and laughter. The family also made countless keepsakes together \u2013 handprints, hand casts, voice recordings.<\/span><\/p>\n The boy has since died. \u201cBut his legacy goes on,\u201d said Ho. \u201cThis year, we continued the treasure hunt for other children in the ward.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n As a child life therapist working with children battling cancer, Ho wants them to know \u201cthey are not alone\u201d in their hospital and medical journey.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cI hope that children remember that they were supported, heard and valued, that their families, the medical team, their school and CCF stood with them through the challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n