A mother from Saskatoon aims to assist children battling cancer by sharing the journey of her late daughter who succumbed to a severe type of leukemia earlier this year.
Cass Thiesen’s child, Clarke, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) at the tender age of two. Over the next four years, Clarke underwent extensive treatments, including radiation, chemotherapy, and bone marrow transplants, in a relentless fight against the disease.
Throughout her ordeal, Clarke maintained a positive outlook, never allowing her illness to overshadow her family’s spirits. Thiesen recalled Clarke’s resilience, mentioning how she danced joyfully before her medical procedures, spreading happiness to those around her.
Despite spending much of her life at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, Clarke remained upbeat, even requesting birthday gifts for her younger sibling rather than for herself. Thiesen fondly described Clarke as a charismatic and spirited child who enjoyed playing pranks on the hospital staff.
Tragically, Clarke passed away at the age of six in April. In her memory, the family established the Forever Clarke Foundation to offer support to Saskatchewan families grappling with cancer.
During Clarke’s memorial, a close friend, Tracy Kondratiuk, recognized the potential of Clarke’s story as a children’s book. With Thiesen’s endorsement, Kondratiuk penned “Clarke’s Big, Brave Heart” to celebrate Clarke’s unique personality, inspire children facing similar battles, and facilitate discussions about the illness within families.
The book not only imparts valuable lessons to children navigating health challenges but also serves as a tool for parents to discuss and appreciate life’s blessings. Thiesen highlighted how the book opens up dialogues for children to share their experiences and emotions, fostering empathy and understanding.
Proceeds from the book’s sales will contribute to the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital and aid cancer-afflicted families in Saskatchewan through the Forever Clarke Foundation.