Emily's Story

I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) in December 2021 just before my 16th birthday. It all happened so quickly as I become very unwell in such a short space of time.

After having a blood test I was called into the hospital to meet with an oncology consultant which at the time I was unaware of.

I was told my diagnosis and started intensive chemotherapy in Bristol Children’s Hospital straight away which lasted for 9 months. During that long and difficult time I was in and out of hospital unable to go to school and be a normal teenager. I managed to stay positive during this time despite dealing with a lot of pain.

When I reached maintenance treatment I was able to go back to school but as I missed my year 11 and was unable to do GCSE’s so I joined the year below.

However, I was only able to be at school part time while still being on chemo and managing side effects. I am proud that I sat my English and Maths exams even after thinking it would not be possible.

I started A levels at sixth form and finally finished treatment at the end of February 2024. I am going into my last year of A levels and taking my exams in the summer 2025.

Since finishing treatment I have been able to start doing the things I have missed out on while on treatment.

Thank you Ben Saunders Foundation for giving us this time to make memories and have fun this summer.