Brave teen puts unborn baby first, sacrifices own life to cancer
Heartbreaking story of a young mother who chose her child’s life over her own, inspiring many with her courage and selflessness.
Brianna Rawlings, just 18 and 17 weeks pregnant, faced an unimaginable decision after being diagnosed with a rare blood cancer. Despite her doctors urging her to terminate her pregnancy to undergo life-saving treatment, Brianna chose to prioritize her baby’s life, a decision that would ultimately cost her own.
Brianna was eagerly anticipating the joys of motherhood when her life was turned upside down by a diagnosis of NK cell leukemia, an aggressive and rare form of blood cancer. Early symptoms, initially mistaken for common pregnancy-related issues, masked the severity of her condition until it was almost too late.
Faced with a heartbreaking choice, Brianna opted to forego cancer treatment to protect her unborn son, Kyden. It was a choice born of love and immense courage, but one that placed her own life in grave danger.
A bittersweet miracle
Kyden was born via emergency C-section at just 26 weeks after Brianna developed a life-threatening blood infection. Tragically, he lived only 12 days due to complications from his premature birth. Still, those days were a source of immense joy for Brianna.
“Those 12 days I was able to spend with my baby boy Kyden, holding him, counting his toes and fingers and talking to him like I would when he was in my tummy. They were just so special, they were the best 12 days of my life!,” Brianna told Femail in an interview.
Despite her grief, Brianna found strength in Kyden’s memory. She remained determined to beat cancer and live on to honor the promise she made to her son.
Fighting an uphill battle
Initially, there were glimmers of hope. Brianna’s blood levels improved, and she focused on rebuilding her strength. But her condition took a devastating turn, forcing doctors to cancel a life-saving bone marrow transplant. Instead, Brianna began a trial drug treatment that came with a staggering cost of $3,000 per week.
With the help of family, friends, and supporters, funds were raised to keep Brianna on the treatment. Sadly, after just two rounds, her body could no longer endure the fight.
On December 29, 2018, Brianna passed away at the age of 19, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering love and incredible bravery.
Brianna’s story is one of profound sacrifice and unconditional love. She gave everything to give her son a chance at life, and in doing so, inspired countless others with her strength and determination.
Her family and supporters remember her as a fighter who faced unimaginable adversity with grace and dignity.
Brianna’s journey is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against cancer. Her story encourages us all to raise awareness, support cancer research, and come together to find a cure for this devastating disease.
If Brianna’s story has touched your heart, share it to honor her memory and inspire others to join the fight against cancer. Together, we can make a difference.
Rest in peace, Brianna and Kyden. Your love and bravery will never be forgotten.
