A family is hit with tragedy only a few years after their 3-year-old son died of a brain tumor as both father and their 2-year-old daughter were diagnosed with cancer.
41-year-old Nate Bowen and his wife Allison already went through hell when their son Crosby passed away in 2018 due to a glioblastoma grade 4, an aggressive brain tumor.
“It was just very traumatic because it was so sudden,” Bowen said at that time. “We got fantastic care and they brought in a child life specialist to help the kids say goodbye to him.”
The family then welcomed a new member of their family: Annabelle. But in late 2020, her parents saw a strange bump on her leg.
When 2-year-old Annabelle was also diagnosed with cancer in 2021, doctors started testing to determine why two children from the same family were diagnosed with cancer, Today reported.
Doctors found out that Annabelle has Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare genetic condition that can increase the risk of developing cancer.
Genetic tests showed that their dad Bowen had the condition so he underwent cancer screenings. He was later told that a tumor was found in his brain.
“When you have multiple children that are young that have cancers, there’s typically this genetic mutation often associated with it,” Bowen said.
While Annabelle is undergoing chemo, Bowen is not as it could cause him to develop more cancer.
Though the father and daughter will likely always be dealing with regular tests, screenings, and threat of cancer, the family is trying its best to stay positive.
“We’ve had to really narrow down our focus and be like, ‘OK I can get through today,’ or ‘I can get through this week,’” Bowen expressed.
“My daughter getting cancer led to my genetic testing, which led to cancer screenings, and allowed us hopefully to catch it early enough. It’s one of those bittersweet things where there’s bad that comes of it. But there’s a good part.”
He also said his relationship with his wife has grown stronger.
“I have really grown to see my wife in a different light and really respect the woman she is and how strong she is. Our love for one another has grown through the trials and we’re trying to be as positive as we can.”
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments section and SHARE this story with your friends and family!
Recommended Video For You!
“Mummy’s Little Miracle! Brave Cervical Cancer Mum Gives Birth To Miracle Baby Son”