It’s been a challenging journey for cancer survivor Holly Altamura but returning to the game she loves has been the light at the end of the tunnel for the 11-year-old.
Holly, who plays for Pultney Grammar in the Subway Thunder Cup, was celebrated during the Cup’s Childhood Cancer Round earlier this month.
She was surprised by three Adelaide Thunderbirds athletes and helped raise awareness for the Childhood Cancer Association.
It was an emotional experience for Holly’s mum Katie Altamura as she reflected on how far her brave daughter has come.
In April of 2017, at just 7 years of age, Holly was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma – a form of bone cancer found in her left leg.
“Holly went straight into chemotherapy, and we were told her leg would need to be amputated,” Katie said.
“Luckily I found a surgeon in Melbourne who was able to remove the bone in her left leg and replace it with bone from her right leg to avoid amputation.
“I’m so thankful we were able to do this as she can run now and play netball which she loves – she can do what other little girls can do now.”
Until 18 months ago, Holly was in a wheelchair focusing on her rehabilitation without certainty she would ever be able to play netball again.
So, when last year she found out she could play, Katie was quick to contact close friend and South Australian netball icon Michelle Den Dekker for her support.
Den Dekker, who experienced a similar situation with her son, took no hesitation in finding a place for Holly in one of her teams at Pultney.
“Holly absolutely loves netball, it really lifts her spirits and just gives her a chance to feel like a normal kid after everything she’s been through,” Katie said.
“I cry every time I think about it because Holly is such an amazing person and netball has been the best therapy for her.”
After undergoing further surgery earlier this year, Holly made the most of her recovery time to do her bit in raising awareness for a cause close to her heart.
“She couldn’t move much so she decided to make and sell scrunchies so she could give the proceeds to the Childhood Cancer Association,” Katie said.
“She’s made 180 scrunchies to date and at the end of September she’ll give over the money she’s made.”
Being surprised by Thunderbirds athletes Matilda Garrett, Samantha Gooden and Elle McDonald at the Childhood Cancer Round meant the world to Holly.
“She was so excited to meet them and was very proud of her signed ball and poster,” Katie said.
“She certainly showed her presents off to her dad once she got home.”
