Mum’s special bundle of joy
Birth bliss after cancer treatment
THE arrival of precious baby Abigail Harrison in February heralded a joyous end to her family’s momentous journey to have a second child.
On Sunday, Jo Harrison will celebrate her first Mother’s Day since Abigail’s birth alongside husband Peter and their other child, five-year-old Charlotte.
Abigail was born from an embryo created before Mrs Harrison started treatment following a diagnosis of breast cancer in 2017.
“She’s brought us so much joy, after such a hard time with all the treatment,’’ Mrs Harrison, 34, said. “Charlotte is the best big sister, she absolutely adores her and it just completes the family.”
The family had decided to try for their second child, but their plans were put on hold when Mrs Harrison discovered a lump in her breast.
“They told me I had to start chemotherapy straight away, and if I did want to have children in future I would have to freeze some eggs,’’ she said.
“We decided to get some embryos made and three embryos were put in the freezer.
“I went through chemotherapy, surgery and radiation, and then had to wait two years before we were able to try for a little one.
“It worked first go. Luckily we had high quality embryos — we didn’t get many eggs or embryos due to the fact my body was fighting the cancer.”
Mrs Harrison praised Tas IVF, who she said was “amazing” throughout the process.
“We were absolutely ecstatic and overjoyed that it
worked straight away. We couldn’t believe it.”
Abigail was born on February 8, a little early but healthy.
Mrs Harrison said she was looking forward to celebrating Mother’s Day on Sunday.
“I can’t wait to spend it with my husband and two precious girls,’’ she said.
“My older daughter has bought something at the Mother’s Day stall she’s chosen herself, and I think her and my husband have got a surprise breakfast planned.”
Mrs Harrison said she was now in the clear and next year would mark five being cancer-free.
“It will be a really momentous occasion,’’ she said.
Mrs Harrison said the tumour was a fast growing and aggressive type of cancer.
Mrs Harrison said her experience served as a reminder for women to be aware of changes to their body.
“Check your breasts regularly, and go straight to your doctor if you notice any changes, any difference in colour or feel of your breast, or a little bit of pain that’s unusual. Don’t wait,’’ she said. years of