Isla's Story

Isla is a happy strong, determined young lady!

In September 2023, Isla started secondary school. Everything seemed to be going well and she quickly settled into her new school routine.

We did notice however that she was losing weight, which we put down to more active life! By end of January, Isla had lost 8kg and started to get night sweats. She was very tired and could no longer swim her 1hr class.

GP had no appointments for couple of weeks so I took her to A&E. Never did we think this will turn our lives upside down. Isla had bloods and chest Xray which revealed mass in her chest. We were kept at the hospital overnight and CT scheduled for next day. The medical team asked me to call my husband in and we were led to the parents room. I knew very well what will fallow! I vaguely remember the words lymphoma!

We were transferred into St George's hospital for biopsy and PICC line insertion. The chemotherapy stated a week later when the diagnosis of classic Hodgkin lymphoma stage 3BS was confirmed.

We are 4 cycles into her treatment and mid treatment PET scan confirmed complete metabolic response which was what we were hoping for.

Throughout her treatment, Isla remained strong, determined to still attend school and was awarded for her resilience and positive attitude! She cut and donated her beautiful hair and raised lots of funds for a well known charity!

Isla has a little sister Mila (8) and a big brother Samuel(14). They both have coped extremely well and have been a great support for Isla! Honey our cavapoo jointed the family too and has been a great distraction for Isla and her siblings.

Thank you to the Ben Saunders foundation for letting us have a well needed break!

Best wishes
Dimitriya, Thomas, Samuel, Isla, Mila and Honey!