Calum all clear
Published Date:
03 July 2008
A NEWTON Mearns boy attended the party of his life to celebrate an all-clear after years battling leukaemia.
Calum McMillan turned seven a fortnight ago but the real celebration came a week later as he and 70 guests attended an end-of-chemo do at Whitecraigs tennis club.
Among guests in attendance were mum Susan, dad Colin and big sisters Emma (11) and Vicky (9).
The shindig marked the conclusion of a gruelling three year-plus treatment following Calum's diagnosis in April 2005.
Mum Susan recalls: "Calum had been getting a lot of headaches, colds and was always tired.
"After a second trip to his GP the doctor noticed a rash and Calum was sent to Yorkhill.
"We feared he had meningitis but thought that was the worst scenario – we hadn't even considered leukaemia.
"Doctors confirmed the diagnosis and Calum was admitted to a cancer ward the following morning.
"We had a short grieving period then had to discuss treatment options, which made us feel a bit more positive."
Calum went on to endure IV and oral chemotherapy, lumbar punctures, blood tests, hair loss and low immunity.
Due to weekly hospital appointments the family has been unable to holiday together, and is now looking forward to visiting Menorca in September.
Susan added: "It has been hard on everyone. I now plan to spend time with each of the children individually."
Dad Colin told The Extra: "The CLIC Sargent charity was wonderful and supported the whole family, including our daughters, by explaining Calum's treatments and providing siblings' activities."
Calum received star treatment at last Saturday's party, with a High School Musical stretch Humvee transporting him and nine friends to the club.
Susan said: "It was great day with both a magician and DJ. Colin said a few words thanking everyone for their help and support, but we didn't dwell on the past.
"It was a happy party atmosphere and we're all looking to the future now.
"Everyone is over the moon. People have been so happy for us. It's great that this news coincided with Calum's birthday to make it extra special."
The full article contains 355 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
03 July 2008 4:32 PM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Pollockshields