It was at the La petite escapade bookstore, 66 avenue De-Gaulle, that Olivier Brunel dedicated his book dedicated to his daughter Alice, who died of leukemia, as well as to other children affected by the disease. After a few welcoming words from Mariane, the bookseller, Olivier Brunel then spoke: “It’s a book about life in the pediatric oncology departments of the Arnaud-de-Villeneuve hospital in Montpellier where my daughter returned in 2023.” He explained the reason for this book: “Every year in France, 2,500 children are affected by cancer. It is a decision that I took, to voluntarily create a short book, I wanted to avoid any pathos, it is a book full of life. this universe, of course there is care, but there are workshops, games, clowning, sport and believe me there are a lot of parents who collapse and it is the kids who pick them up.”
Following the book, the Alice and the Little Warriors association was born, which wishes to promote the well-being of children, parents and caregivers. “This association also wishes to raise awareness among the general public, young people, about these diseases which we do not talk about, but which can affect anyone at any time. We noticed when the child returned home, to school after a successful transplant, that he was a little rejected by others his age. It's fear we think, we can't bring misfortune into our homes! We offer several activities, we try to bring the family unit together, if we can, by offering rentals or lodgings as soon as the child gets better, equine therapy sessions, moral support with parent groups. We are going to implement awareness-raising actions at leisure centers and youth centers from 11 to 17 years old.” A discussion with those present was then initiated regarding this story described with modesty, tact and sometimes humor.
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