A FAMILY is raising awareness of childhood cancer after their baby was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukaemia.
Rohan, from Wakefield, was just five months old when his mother, Penny, noticed several small, solid lumps on his head.
He was later diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, an aggressive blood cancer that had already spread to his spinal fluid.
Penny said: "The first time you come onto the ward, it’s a shock.
"It’s daunting and traumatic to see so many poorly children before it becomes normal to you.
"You never think this is going to happen to your child."
Rohan and Penny now (Image: Supplied)
Rohan began chemotherapy just four days after diagnosis and spent more than six months in hospital.
During his treatment, he developed severe mucositis, a painful side effect that left him unable to feed and reliant on intravenous nutrition.
Penny stayed in hospital with Rohan for most of the next six and a half months, while his father, Warren, balanced work and trips between home and the ward.
The family received support from Candlelighters, a Yorkshire-based charity that helps families affected by childhood cancer.
The charity provided emotional, practical, and financial support, as well as time with Rohan to allow Penny short breaks.
It also funds research into reducing traumatic side effects of cancer treatment.
Emily Wragg, chief executive of Candlelighters, said: "September is an important month for the international childhood cancer community, but the reality for families is that they often face many months or even years of treatment.
"It’s important that they get the right support."