The Dazzling Life of Daisy
On the 25th of August, 2019, Donna Xiong received the worst news any mother could receive. Her daughter Daisy, age 6, had been diagnosed with DIPG, an incurable brain cancer only seen in children.
Daisy was a vibrant young girl, who loved to sing and dance. She had aspirations of becoming a cheerleader in high school and one day having a successful YouTube channel. She was described by her mother as a “girl’s girl”. Her favorite color was, of course, pink, and she loved to play with her many barbie dolls. However, Daisy’s life took a drastic change in direction following her diagnosis. Her family quickly searched for whatever treatment would help to heal their daughter and started Daisy on 30 days of radiation. “As a parent you are willing to try anything”, Donna, Daisy’s mother said. The family didn’t stop there. Once the radiation didn’t work they tried an Avastin infusion, as well as chemotherapy, however neither treatment seemed to have any positive outcomes. With the lack of funding for DIPG research and a cure many years away, the family fearing the worst decided to make some lasting memories with their daughter. They fulfilled Daisy’s wish of becoming a YouTuber and created her a channel called It’s Daisy’s Life to share her fun experiences over the last year. On November 20, 2019 Daisy’s family took a trip down to Disney World and recorded the experience. She also filmed a spa day as well as another family trip to Las Vegas which would be her final YouTube video. Daisy battled DIPG for 15 months but on December 14th, 2020 Daisy took a rest from her fight.
There are hundreds of parents around the world that have to deal with their child being diagnosed with DIPG each year. Donna, held onto hope throughout Daisy’s battle that a cure would be found in time for her daughter to be healed. This hope came from her unfailing love for Daisy and the light she brought to all those around her with her infectious personality and carefree life. Donna’s wish is that no other parent has to deal with what she and her whole family went through over the past year. “Cancer affects so many families but you never expect your child to get it.” Donna said the best way you can support families and those around you affected by DIPG is helping spread awareness, and having those affected in your thoughts and prayers. However the most impactful thing you can do is donating to charities to help fund research to find a cure for DIPG.
By Trevor Dominy
