Growing up in Cooktown far north QLD, 10-year-old Jarrah loves the outdoors.
After a day out and about happily riding his scooter, Jarrah woke up with sore legs. The pain worsened and in a matter of days, Jarrah’s legs were numb.
He was air-lifted to the nearest major hospital where tests revealed a tumour around his spine.
Tragically, Jarrah was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer.
His mum Rebecca collapsed with the shock and grief. “You never expect to hear that your child has cancer. Our whole world felt ripped apart,” she said.
Jarrah was immediately transferred to the children’s hospital to start chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Heartbreakingly, the family had to relocate from their beloved home in Cooktown to Brisbane- over 2,000km away - to be near the hospital.
Jarrah’s treatment left him nauseous, exhausted and prone to infection. He lost one-third of his body weight and had to learn to walk again.
It was such a traumatic time and Rebecca said she can’t imagine how they would have coped without Starlight.
When he was well enough, Jarrah loved spending time playing games in the Starlight Express Room away from all his medical treatment.
“Starlight helped Jarrah get through the low points and take his mind off things. It’s been a huge benefit to Jarrah, keeping him sane, distracted and happy. The impact is priceless.”
Jarrah in hospital - crossing fingers for treatment
Jarrah in Starlight Express Room with Captain Starlight
After nearly a year in hospital away from his friends at home, Jarrah received the exciting news that he’d been granted his Starlight Wish.
All Jarrah wished for was to see his friends again. Planning his wish adventure gave him something positive to focus on.
For his wish, Jarrah’s friends were flown to visit him for an unforgettable weekend of fun and go-karting. Rebecca said Jarrah’s wish created lasting good memories that helped the bad ones to fade.
When the world is crashing down around you and the future is unknown, it is essential to be able to find happiness. Starlight is that shining light in the face of trauma. A huge heartfelt thanks to all the supporters. You change peoples’ lives for the better and we just can’t thank you enough. Rebecca, Jarrah's mum