“I feel more combative than before. After everything I've been through in the last year, I feel like nothing can get me down,” says Charles-Édouard proudly.
A christmas turned upside down
On December 21, 2021, Charles-Édouard and his parents, Isabelle and Hugo, went to the CHUL to get the results of an MRI performed a few days earlier. This scan had been ordered after investigations into Charles-Édouard's precocious puberty. As the family headed into the holiday season, no one expected that this simple hospital visit would mark the beginning of a life-changing ordeal. Pandemic restrictions were still in effect at the time, and only one parent was allowed to accompany Charles-Édouard to his first appointments. Isabelle did so, while Hugo waited for them in the car. During the consultation with the endocrinologist, they learned that Charles-Édouard had a benign but active brain tumour. The tumour was exerting pressure on his optic chiasma, irreversibly threatening his eyesight, and on his hypothalamus, which explained why his growth has been accelerated. The early onset of puberty enabled the tumour to be discovered and treatment to be started quickly. His father was invited to join them, and Charles-Édouard informed him of the diagnosis. Together, they met with the ophthalmologist for a full evaluation, and the oncologist to learn the next steps. Overwhelmed with questions and emotions, Isabelle and Hugo came together as a team to hear the news and support their son.
70 fridays faced with determination
Upon receiving the diagnosis, the family had to adapt quickly. A PAC (subcutaneous venous catheter) had to be placed in Charles-Édouard's chest, under general anesthetic. This little box would enable his body to receive the 70 vinblastine (chemotherapy) treatments scheduled for the next 70 Fridays, causing him to miss several days of school.
These treatment days were hard on the 12-year-old: he had no appetite, lost all motivation and experienced a mixture of extreme fatigue and nausea, all the while suffering from gastric reflux. The next day, he would regain the strength to resume his favourite activities, such as playing baseball, and discovered new passions, such as electric guitar and basketball. His determination and optimism helped him to overcome these challenges with admirable resilience.
A hope-filled Future
In June 2023, after 70 chemotherapy treatments, the tumour’s growth had been stabilized. Today, Charles-Édouard still wears his CAP as a preventive measure and continues to regularly see his oncology, ophthalmology, and endocrinology specialists. Despite the complications, he remains a playful child with a sparkling smile, enjoying his favourite activities. “In spite of everything, he continues to smile and thrive in his sports and music,” his parents proudly confide. His inspiring vitality and incredible maturity are a testament to his immense inner strength.
– Isabelle Pouliot, Hugo Demers and Félix-Antoine (22 years old)
Charles-Édouard, a young boy with great courage
Charles-Édouard and his family welcomed Alain Dumas with open arms to tell their story of perseverance.
