Cali rings the bell to mark the end of cancer treatment
Six-year-old Caliyah (Cali) Barrow-White celebrated the end of her cancer treatment by ringing the end-of-treatment bell on Tiger Ward at Queen Elizabeth Hospital on Monday 17 March 2025. She was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in December 2022.
Cali’s mother, Madison White, recalled the moment they first realised something was wrong while on holiday in the Dominican Republic. Initially believed to be a cold, then tonsillitis, it wasn’t until blood tests were taken that Cali’s family received the cancer diagnosis.
Madison said: “The journey had its ups and downs. Cali started with an NG tube but bravely decided to take all her medicine orally. One of the hardest moments was when her hair fell out three times, but watching it grow back each time brought happiness.”
“Throughout her treatment, Cali found comfort in Tiger Ward’s nurses, doctors, and play team. The support from Tiger Ward has been amazing.
“The staff are always so caring and empathetic. Cali never minded staying overnight because she loved the playroom and seeing the nurses. The special off-site parties also gave us something to look forward to and a break from thinking about treatment.”
Clinical Nurse Specialist Samantha praised Cali’s resilience: “Cali’s journey has been filled with challenges, but she has faced them all with incredible bravery and a smile on her face.
“Seeing her ring the end-of-treatment bell was an emotional and unforgettable moment for the Tiger ward team. The happiness on her family's faces said it all, it was a privilege to be part of their journey.”
Madison donated a hamper filled with toys to Tiger Ward’s special Treasure Box, which provides toys for young patients undergoing treatment, as well as gifts for our dedicated colleagues on Tiger Ward.
Ringing the bell was a proud and emotional moment for Cali and her family, who celebrated with a trip to Nando’s and are looking forward to a holiday this summer.
Madison’s message to other families on a similar journey: “Stay positive and take it day by day, the end-of-treatment date will arrive.”
The chemotherapy bell was funded by the charity, End of Treatment Bells. To find out more about the charity, please visit the End of Treatment Bells website.
