A nine-year-old cancer patient has asked for cards for Christmas after his parents were told he had just weeks to live.
Little Jacob Thompson has been fighting Neuroblastoma, cancer that forms in nerve cells early on, since he was diagnosed at age 5. It has spread to his head and hip, and treatment was deemed unsuccessful.
His mother, Michelle Thompson Simard, wrote on a GoFundMe page that Jacob has been admitted to the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital in Portland, Maine, “for the last time.”
She wrote earlier this month that “his father, Roger, and myself have been told that we should be spending as much time as possible with him and we should start making arrangements for his passing.”
She added: “It is expected Jacob may pass away within the month.”
Since Jacob is bed-ridden and has limited time left with his loved ones, they are bringing Christmas to him next weekend.
On the big day, his room will transform into a winter wonderland — snow, sparkling tree and even Santa will be paying a visit.
Jacob has one request for his last festive holiday: cards from anyone “inspired to reach out” to help bring the Christmas cheer.
He has already started receiving cards. The first, from his friend, pictured a penguin (his favourite animal). According to Jacob’s mother, “live like a penguin,” is a motto of his. She told Good Housekeeping magazine, that in Jacob’s words, this means “be friendly, stand by each other, go the extra mile, jump into life and be cool.”
“Jacob loves the holiday season,” the mother said, “and we want him to know that Christmas wishes come true and that there are good people who care all around the world.”
To send a card to Jacob, use this address: Jacob Thompson c/o Maine Medical Centre, 22 Bramhall Street, Portland, ME 04102, USA.