Sheryl Blanksby, a Filipino mom who is based in Australia, caught the internet’s attention when she shared a heartwarming moment between her two boys. The image, which has captured the hearts of many is a perfect portrayal of a brother’s love.
We caught up with Sheryl, who blogs as Ms.Chikee, to find out more about her beautiful family.
Your sons are adorable! Please tell us more about them.
My eldest is William and he’s 3 (almost 4 in April). He’s your typical 3-year-old, bibo, makulit, loud but he’s one very loving and affectionate. He kisses his brother every chance he get.
And my Thomas just recently turned 16 weeks. He’s a strong character and yet so angelic. He’s very happy unless he’s in pain. He smiles a lot and loves to chat now.
How did you feel before you snapped that photo of your panganay comforting your bunso?
I was just worried that William was doing something silly, like feeding his baby brother his breakfast or spreading Nutella on him, but as soon as I saw him comforting Thomas, I signalled for my husband to come over and watch.
I felt so enamored by them, but at them same time I felt sad for William. Like many in our family, we waited for Thomas, especially William, he’s most excited about a baby brother.
Please us a bit more about Thomas’ condition.
Thomas is diagnosed with Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor. It’s an aggressive type of cancer that is usually found in babies and toddlers.
Thomas is a rainbow baby, right?
Yes, I had a miscarriage the year before we conceived Thomas. It took us one year to get pregnant. Also, both Thomas and the baby we lost had the same due date.
How is Thomas doing now?
Currently, he’s as okay as he can be. He is on pain medication to manage his pain symptoms. He’s okay and happy unless he’s in pain.
He can’t move his right leg muchdue to the fracture in his hip bone where the tumor is growing. We haven’t been able to cuddle or carry him because of the fracture so it has been difficult for us but he’s happy and okay.
What words of encouragement or help have you received from family and friends?
We’ve been blessed with hundreds of words of love and prayers from people all over the world. Some we know and some are complete strangers.
They all remind us to be strong for Thomas, to still believe in miracles and to know that the world is praying for him.
How has your husband supported you?
He’s amazing. I couldn’t ask for a better partner. He’s took time off work to be with us 24/7. He’s the one who does everything else in the house while I look after Thomas especially when we were in the hospital.
He takes William to school in the morning so Thomas and I can sleep longer. He makes sure I’ve eaten or have had a nap when Thomas is asleep. He’s just amazing.
That’s amazing. How is he personally dealing with it?
He’s dealing it so graciously. He doesn’t hide emotions. We both are constantly trying to look at the positive side of things and when things get too much, we just cry and hug each other.
What advice would you give a family who might find themselves in a similar situation?
First is, they are not alone and don’t be afraid to ask for help or accept help. Their families and friends are all there by their side.
Second, live in the moment. It’s healthier for the mind and heart.
Third, try to see the positive side of every situation. I once caught myself in this loop of thinking of the things I will never get to do with Thomas instead of appreciating all the things that I get to do with him now.
Fourth, acknowledge all kind of emotions. If you need to cry or scream, do it. Savor the good days and make lasting memories.
Lastly, whatever you believe in, pray, meditate, send positive vibes, because if anything, prayers feed the soul with hope, love, gratitude and we all need that.
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