Sienna
Iroquois Falls, ON
Lifeline for Families in Need: How Hope Air Supports Access to Vital Medical Treatment
At just five weeks old, Sienna’s parents noticed a lump on her neck. Initially dismissed as a virus, the condition worsened as more growths appeared. Alarmed, they sought help from a family doctor in Timmins, who quickly referred Sienna to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in Ottawa.
At CHEO, Sienna endured weeks of testing and was diagnosed with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH), a rare disease requiring aggressive chemotherapy and steroids. For months, her parents stayed at Ronald McDonald House, supporting their daughter through intensive treatments, including feeding tube care.
Traveling from Iroquois Falls to Ottawa posed immense challenges for Sienna’s family. The 10-hour drive was unfeasible with a baby, and frequent trips added financial and emotional strain. “Without Hope Air, we’d have had to stay in Ottawa all year,” Sienna’s mother explained.
Hope Air provided free flights, allowing the family to travel every three weeks for treatment. “It was a game-changer. Everything was provided—we didn’t have to worry. It made all the difference, especially since we’re both on EI.”
Sienna’s treatment involves chemotherapy every three weeks, along with steroids, and is expected to continue. Despite the difficulties, her condition has improved significantly, and doctors are optimistic she will live a healthy life.
Hope Air’s support has been vital. “Canada is vast, and many remote families can’t access essential care without help. Hope Air makes it possible,” Sienna’s mom said.
For this family, the service has been a lifeline, reducing their stress and ensuring Sienna receives the care she needs to thrive.