On October 17, 2020, the diagnosis came as a shock! Belha had a high-grade, fast-growing tumor; a medulloblastoma in the cerebellum. Three weeks after the life-changing announcement, Belha and her mom left for Boston for two months. While there, Belha received proton radiation and chemotherapy. On their return, chemotherapy became part of Belha's life for the next six months at CHEO.

The impact on her life is wide-ranging: multiple scars, hair loss that won't grow back the way it used to, pain, memory loss, absence from school, adapted school plan, reduced hearing, reduced growth and disgust with food are just a few.

Despite it all, one of the hardest things for Belha was to give up gymnastics. 

Brave, smiling and giggling, Belha is, according to her mother, a big girl in a little girl's body, very mature, a good listener and independent. In remission for two years, Belha has been discharged from neuropsychology, physiotherapy, speech therapy and psychoeducation. She undergoes regular MRIs, oncology follow-ups and hormone therapy, but most of all she can enjoy the things she loves: drawing, playing pear ball, swimming, inviting friends over, writing songs, singing, dancing and listening to music!