It was the 28th May 2013 when we learned that our vibrant, outgoing son, Tate, had developed a rare form of childhood cancer known as Desmoplastic Small Cell Round Tumour. This was an aggressive and invasive cancer with tumours typically presenting in the abdomen or pelvis. Tate was only the fifth child in Australia to ever be diagnosed with this uncommon form of cancer. Tate was the youngest of our three sons. He was known for his infectious sense of humour and easy-going outlook on life. He was always happy and touched the lives of all those he met. He dreamed big, and one day was going to be a farmer or a park ranger. He loved the colour pink and couldn’t ever say no to a Krispy Kreme donut. Like all young boys, Tate loved playing sport and was a mad North Melbourne and Boston Celtics supporter. So many of Tate’s memories were made while we were up in our holiday house in Echuca, spending time with family and friends. Throughout his battle, Tate was so strong and brave and never gave up hope of finding a cure. From his first day of diagnosis, Tate spent an incredible amount of time at the Royal Children’s Hospital. It became our second home. In this time, Tate underwent many operations and procedures, too many to count. Remarkably, Tate was the first child in Australia to trial new, groundbreaking treatments, only ever performed at the Royal Children’s Hospital. Tate had two major surgeries (one which was 17 hours long), where he was left with a scar extending from his breast bone to his pelvic bone. The treatment we received at the Royal Children’s Hospital was second to none. We encountered so many amazing oncologists, surgeons, specialists and nurses. We couldn’t be more grateful of the care and support we received. Tate’s life was cut far too short by a rare form of cancer that is still widely unknown. Currently there is no research in Australia, specifically dedicated to the treatment and cure of Desmoplastic Small Cell Round Tumour also known also known as DSCRT. To say thank you we have created the Tate Scarce Fund, we are aiming to raise money to aide in the awareness and research of, not just DSCRT but all, rare, childhood cancers. Thanks for visiting my Fundraising Page for In memory for The Royal Children's Hospital Foundation! You can sponsor me and leave a message by selecting the donate button above. Thanks for supporting our efforts in raising money for this cause!