In a harrowing turn of events, a young girl from Perth, Australia, and her father have both been diagnosed with cancer within days of each other. Maddie Turner, a 13-year-old student, initially struggled with persistent foot pain that was misdiagnosed as a fracture. The real cause, however, was far more sinister: a rare form of bone cancer known as Ewing sarcoma. Just days later, her father, Mick Turner, received his own devastating diagnosis of colon cancer.
The family’s ordeal began when Maddie experienced unexplained foot pain for months. Despite multiple medical consultations and tests, the cause remained elusive until an accidental injury led to further investigation. Maddie’s mother, Cait Turner, expressed her frustration over the initial misdiagnosis, stating, “Our concerns were just kind of falling on deaf ears.”
Uncovering the True Diagnosis
The breakthrough came when Maddie’s father sought a second opinion from a specialist surgeon at Perth Children’s Hospital. An emergency MRI revealed abnormalities, leading to a biopsy that confirmed the presence of a tumor. Initially, doctors suspected a bone infection, but further analysis revealed the more serious diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma.
Cait recounted the moment she learned of the diagnosis: “My whole world started spinning around me.” The family faced a difficult decision between amputation and chemotherapy, ultimately opting for the latter.
A Second Blow to the Family
While grappling with Maddie’s diagnosis, the family was dealt another blow. Mick Turner had been experiencing persistent symptoms for about a year, which he had largely ignored. A scheduled colonoscopy revealed that he too had cancer. Cait found Mick in tears at the hospital, where he delivered the heartbreaking news, “I have cancer.”
The dual diagnoses have placed an enormous emotional and financial burden on the family. Mick underwent emergency surgery to remove a tumor and part of his bowel, while Maddie prepared for aggressive chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
The Financial and Emotional Toll
The Turners’ financial situation has become precarious, with both Cait and Mick’s full-time incomes affected. Cait’s sister, Rachel Ross, launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the family, highlighting the immense pressure they are under. “To see the happiest, most carefree, loving person you know crushed under the weight of worry, fear, and exhaustion … it’s unbearable,” Ross shared.
The costs associated with cancer treatment are significant. Maddie’s chemotherapy regimen requires her to stay close to the hospital, and the family faces mounting medical bills alongside their regular expenses. The cost of Maddie’s realistic wig alone was $3,500, a necessary purchase to help maintain her confidence during treatment.
Community Support and Resilience
Despite the challenges, the Turners have found support in their community. Friends and family have rallied around them, offering both emotional and financial assistance. Maddie’s friends plan to host a head-shaving party, donning bald caps in solidarity with her journey.
As the family navigates this difficult period, they remain focused on the future. Mick’s treatment plan is still being determined, while Maddie’s next nine months are mapped out with intensive therapy. Cait has taken on a casual role at work to accommodate her family’s needs, and the family continues to lean on their community for support.
The Turners’ story is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. As they confront the dual challenges of cancer diagnoses, they do so with determination and the hope of brighter days ahead. Their journey serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the strength found in family and community.
