Taz was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at age nine. Over the following decade he experienced multiple relapses and two bone marrow transplants before a second post-transplant relapse at age 19, when curative treatment was no longer possible. This case study reflects on caring for Taz throughout his cancer journey and explores how adolescent and young adult (AYA) care in a paediatric hospital, can support a young person to live, and die, on their own terms.
Reflecting on Taz's story, ten words emerged that capture both his journey and the care required to support him. Leukaemia marked the beginning of a ten year cancer experience. Learning remained a constant through schooling, university aspirations and the lessons he taught those caring for him. Listening to his priorities shaped every stage of care. Lyrics and songwriting provided purpose, identity and creative expression, while Letters to loved ones became an important part of his preparation for death.
As Taz entered adulthood, Living became his priority. Independence, minimising time in hospital, making music and creating memories with family and friends became central to care planning. Leading his own decisions was fundamental, requiring flexibility and advocacy across multiple healthcare settings.
When disease-directed treatment options were exhausted, Legacy planning became a focus. Through Voicing My Choices, Taz planned his funeral, personalised his coffin with photographs, distributed meaningful possessions, wrote letters to loved ones and recorded songs for posthumous release. Liaising across hospital teams ensured care remained aligned with his goals and values. The final chapter, Launch, reflected the release of his music after his death, allowing his voice to continue reaching others.
This case highlights the importance of developmentally appropriate, person-centred palliative care that prioritises listening, autonomy and flexibility, enabling young people to define what matters most and lead their care until the end.