My Story

Hello😊 I'm running the Great North Run in September for Teenage Cancer Trust with my best friend Lizzy... as a Disney princess!! 

I am pleased to say this year I am 19 years clear from a stage 4 Wilm's tumour. I was treated with extensive chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and a very long operation to remove the tumour and my kidney. The doctors, nurses, and staff in the hospitals were amazing! To keep me smiling through my treatment, I dressed up as Disney princesses, often being rewarded with a new dress when I'd finished a particularly grouling course of chemo. In 2021, I was on the way to what we thought was my final long-term follow-up appointment with my oncologist. Unfortunately, results from my echo showed my heart had been damaged from the chemotherapy and I was told I had heart failure. This was the end of one journey and the start of another. It has taken time to get the medications sorted and I have regular echo's to check my heart, but I am so grateful for the continued care and support. I realise how fortunate I am to be able to live my life the way I do and only have limited side effects from the cancer. I now work as a physiotherapist and love working with people in the community to help them achieve their goals. 

It was at university studying for physio where Lizzy and I met. She has been there for me through everything and I am so excited we get to take part in this amazing challenge together. This year, one of our best friends was also diagnosed with cancer. He is at the start of his cancer journey and is receiving wonderful support from Teenage Cancer Trust. It is looking positive and we all cannot wait for the day he gets the all clear. 

There are so many reasons we are running for this amazing charity. The work they do really does change lives and we would be so grateful for any donations to help support young people living with cancer.