Little Zara's brave fight against leukaemia

10:00am Friday 29th August 2008

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FIVE-year-old Zara Holland is the picture of courage.

Which is why her parents have described their daughter, who was diagnosed on Christmas Eve with a life-threatening disease, as an inspiration.

Zara, of Henman Close, Abbey Meads, now faces a tough seven weeks of chemotherapy in her fight against leukaemia.

Her mother Alison, 32, said: “She’s an absolute inspiration. She never complains or moans about anything.”

Even the loss of her beautiful long hair did not faze brave Zara.

“She just took it all in her stride,” said Alison. “I think it was more devastating for me.”

Alison and Zara’s father Alby, 34, became concerned when Zara became constantly tired and blood tests were carried out.

At first GPs dismissed it as a virus.

But leukaemia was confirmed on December 24, 2007 after Zara was transferred from the Great Western Hospital in Swindon to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital.

“It’s just the last thing you think, the last thing that crosses your mind,” said Alison.

“You go into shock. It feels like it’s not your life, it feels like it’s happening to somebody else.

“It’s a sense of bereavement for your life and your child’s life.”

The condition is called Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, and it meant Zara spent a week over Christmas in Oxford.

With only one parent allowed to stay with the child, Alison paid tribute to the work of the charity CLIC Sargent.

It was through them, and the house that they provided in Oxford, that the family, including Zara’s two-year-old brother Harvey, were able to stay together over the festive period.

They also helped with advice and the practicalities of everyday life, such as arranging hospital parking permits, which for the Holland family was invaluable.

“Especially in those first few days when all sorts of thoughts are going round in your head,” said Alison.

“It’s heart-breaking and when it’s your child you wish it was you. If you could take the pain away you would.”

Though Zara does have to have regular blood transfusions, it is hoped her form of cancer can be cured with a two-year course of treatment and without a bone marrow transplant.

However, she has had constant chemotherapy in different forms, which can sometimes make her susceptible to infection because her immune system is low.

One hobby that helps take Zara’s mind off the pain is horse riding, which she has continued to thrive in.

This year she has won 40 rosettes and one medal.

“Nothing stands in her way, she puts us all to shame,” said her proud mother.

Alison also paid tribute to her daughter’s school, Catherine Wayte Primary in Abbey Meads, where she said pupils and staff had been supportive.