Every September, cancer awareness comes into focus as communities and schools across Canada keep the spirit of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope alive by holding Terry Fox Runs, commemorations and other events.
Laurie Higgins, RECE and Council member of the College, has a close connection to Terry’s story and his mission of hope. Her son, Jesse, was diagnosed at just 20 years old with the same cancer Terry Fox faced. His courageous journey led Laurie to write two children’s picture books to honour his legacy and support children and families in finding strength in adversity.
Here, Laurie shares the story of her son and the books he inspired.
In her own words: Jesse’s Journey
My son Jesse was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in June 2021, the same type of cancer Terry Fox had. Jesse faced his diagnosis with remarkable courage and determination but sadly passed away in May 2022 at the age of 21. More than four decades after Terry Fox began his Marathon of Hope, Jesse’s story is a reminder that young people are still facing this devastating disease and that the need for cancer research remains as important as ever.
During Jesse’s illness, I was working as an Early Childhood Educator in a kindergarten classroom. As many ECEs know, children notice when something significant is happening in the lives of the adults they trust. I wanted the children to understand why I was sometimes away and what Jesse was experiencing in a way that was honest, meaningful, and age appropriate. Through conversations, learning experiences, and videos, we explored difficult topics together while fostering empathy, understanding and hope.
Jesse became an active part of that journey and inspired me to think more deeply about how children’s literature can help families navigate serious illness, grief and complex emotions. While sitting beside Jesse during treatments, I began writing notes that would eventually become my first children’s book, A Superhero Named Jesse. After Jesse’s passing, I completed the book as a tribute to his courage and resilience.
I later wrote a second book, Cancer Makes Me Feel, with Jesse recognized as a co-author. Both books were created to support children, families, and educators by providing age-appropriate opportunities to talk about cancer, emotions and loss while helping children see their experiences reflected in literature.
As Early Childhood Educators across Ontario participate in Terry Fox initiatives this month, I believe Jesse’s story offers an opportunity to reflect on the importance of supporting children and families through challenging life experiences. My hope is that sharing his journey will inspire meaningful conversations, raise awareness about childhood and young adult cancer, and remind us all of the importance of continuing to support cancer research.
Published works for children by Laurie Higgins RECE
About Laurie Higgins RECE
Laurel (Laurie) Higgins, RECE, is a Professor in Early Childhood Education at Seneca Polytechnic and a PhD student whose research focuses on social justice. With more than 30 years of experience in childcare, consulting and kindergarten education, Laurie brings a wealth of practical knowledge and insight to her teaching and mentorship. Her areas of expertise include curriculum development, ethics, family resources and music in early learning. Laurie is dedicated to preparing the next generation of Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs) to be caring, responsive professionals who create meaningful, inclusive and supportive learning environments for children and families.