In June 2022, Hugo’s life changed dramatically when he was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 14. This was the beginning of a long battle against the disease: 56 chemotherapy sessions, 16 lumbar punctures, weeks of hospitalization, and severe side effects. Hugo never gave up, nor did his family. Today, he is in remission, but his journey reminds us of how essential it is to keep fighting to ensure that all children have access to suitable treatments.
Like Hugo, every month, 3,000 children in Europe and 200 in France are diagnosed with cancer. For 29% of them, it will be leukemia. This is why our association mobilizes every day to raise funds and support research that aims to cure more children and adolescents, more effectively. As the year comes to an end, let’s support the thousands of families fighting pediatric cancers and make “healing” a part of their future. In this article, discover Hugo’s heartbreaking story, shared by his mother, and why supporting childhood cancer research is more urgent than ever.
The Leukemia Diagnosis: An Unexpected Shock
In June 2022, 14-year-old Hugo began feeling unusually tired and had a persistent fever. Following her intuition, his mother Julie took him to the emergency room. Although the doctor initially seemed unconcerned, a blood test revealed liver inflammation. Very quickly, Hugo was transferred to Trousseau Hospital in Paris, a specialized oncology center. Here, the harsh reality set in: Hugo was diagnosed with leukemia.
“The news hit us like a ton of bricks,” recalls Julie. But Hugo showed incredible strength. After a moment of emotion, he pulled himself together, ready to face this battle.
The Beginning of the Fight: Chemotherapy and Intensive Care
The day after his diagnosis, everything moved quickly for Hugo. Bone marrow biopsies, catheter placement, chemotherapy, and weeks of hospitalization at Trousseau Hospital followed. Altogether, Hugo underwent no less than 56 chemotherapy sessions and 16 lumbar punctures. Each day brought new challenges, but Hugo kept a warrior spirit, never complained, and remained determined to beat the disease—which he will do.
Returning Home: The Ongoing Battle Against Leukemia
After weeks of hospitalization, Hugo returned home under an in-home hospital care program. Nurses visited several times a week to ensure he received his treatments properly. While Hugo is now in remission, his journey has been filled with hardship. The intense treatments he endured resulted in severe side effects, including a 16-kilogram weight loss, a nasogastric feeding tube, kidney failure, and mucositis.
However, surrounded by his family, friends, and caregivers, Hugo was able to keep his spirits up. He even experienced moments of respite, like when he participated in a track day at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit—an unforgettable experience made possible by the Imagine for Margo association.
The Importance of Research: Why Your Support Is Essential
The fight against leukemia goes beyond Hugo’s story. Each year, in France alone, 2,500 children are diagnosed with cancer, and nearly 500 children die because effective treatments are not yet available. Pediatric cancers are still largely treated with protocols developed for adults, which result in devastating side effects for young patients.
Hugo’s story highlights the critical importance of pediatric oncology research. Funds raised help develop treatments better suited for children.
Imagine for Margo is an association dedicated to this cause, raising donations to fund innovative research programs. Thanks to these contributions, children like Hugo have a better chance of recovery.
How Can You Help?
Childhood cancer is a reality we cannot ignore. Every donation, every act of solidarity can make a huge impact. It’s essential to support research that offers these young warriors treatments that are more tailored, less aggressive, and more effective.
Today, Hugo is in remission, but his fight is not over. “Hugo lost one of his friends to leukemia in September, which was a real shock for him. It reminds us that not everyone has the same chance, and that the fight continues,” explains Julie.
Together, we can make a difference. Donate now and join this fight. Your contribution can make “healing” a part of their future.
