Kamloops girl continues fight against cancer despite tragic prognosis | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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Kamloops News

Kamloops girl continues fight against cancer despite tragic prognosis

Sam Donovan, 6, is currently in hospice after tragic news in her cancer diagnosis
Image Credit: contributed

KAMLOOPS - It’s been nearly a month since the Donovan family from Kamloops learned six-year-old Samantha would have only days to live, but according to family friends the girl's motivation and optimism have helped her stay active and away from her hospital bed. 

“She continues to hang in there. It’s definitely like Sam — fighting like normal,” family friend Trish D’Hondt says.

Sam was diagnosed with Burkitt’s leukemia nearly two years ago and after a fleeting period of remission, the cancer returned and spread quickly. Despite the negative prognosis, D’honda says Sam’s spirit remains strong and the girl is keeping up the fight.

She adds family members have made the most of their time in Vancouver where Sam is staying in Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.

“They’re trying to keep her busy while keeping their minds off everything as well,” D’Hondt says. So far Sam and family have toured the aquarium, visited the zoo and went on day trips to Granville Island.

While the family works to make memories, not only does the stress about Sam’s condition remain, but the Donovan’s face severe financial hardship and debt since they’ve been unable to continue working.

“I can’t even imagine their stress level,” D’Hondt says.

Two local fundraiser events, hosted by the Vue Restaurant at the Dunes Golfcourse and Bailey’s Pub, have contributed $12,000 to the family, but with the cost of medical care and prescriptions. D’Hondt says it’s not enough.

No additional charity events are currently planned, but she says the family is appealing to the public for extra assistance.

To contribute to the Donovans and Sam’s treatment, you can do so via the family’s GoFundMe page.


To contact a reporter for this story, email Glynn Brothen or call 250-319-7494 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

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