Community Rallies to Support Young Belfast Mother Battling Terminal Cancer

In a heartfelt plea, a Belfast family is reaching out to the community for support as they face an unimaginable challenge: 22-year-old Rachael Burns has been diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help fund potential life-extending treatment.

Rachael, a young mother to one-year-old Raeya, began experiencing severe headaches and eye discomfort eight months ago. Initially diagnosed with “dry eyes,” her symptoms persisted, leading to an urgent visit to the Royal Victoria Hospital. After a difficult few days on a trolley bed in a hospital corridor, an MRI revealed a mass in her brain, later identified as a diffuse midline glioma with the rare and aggressive H3K27 mutation, which has also spread to her spine.

Due to the tumor’s size and location, surgery is not an option. The diagnosis is terminal, giving Rachael potentially only months to live. Faced with this harrowing reality, the family is determined to explore all possible treatment options to extend her life and maximize the time she can spend with her loved ones.

The GoFundMe campaign aims to raise funds for a treatment in Germany known as ONC201, which could potentially extend Rachael’s life. The funds will cover travel expenses, accommodation, and the costly drugs required for the treatment. The family is committed to ensuring that financial constraints do not impede Rachael’s fight for her life or the precious time she has with her daughter.

“No one should go from celebrating their child’s first birthday to facing a terminal illness so swiftly,” the family stated. “While we can’t erase Rachael’s pain, we can ease the financial burden and support her journey.”

The campaign has already touched the hearts of many, with donations pouring in from friends, family, and strangers alike. The family’s goal is to not only support Rachael through her treatment but also to ensure Raeya’s future is secured. Any remaining funds after medical expenses will be placed in a bank account for Raeya to support her in life if the time comes when she loses her mother.

Rachael’s story is a poignant reminder of the unexpected turns life can take and the power of community support in the face of adversity. The family expressed their deep gratitude for the kindness and generosity shown by those who have donated and asked that the community keep them in their thoughts during this challenging time.

To support Rachael and her family, donations can be made through their GoFundMe campaign. https://gofund.me/93cef949

Contact:
For more information or to make a donation, please visit the GoFundMe page or contact Rachael’s family directly.