Patient stories
Find out about the impact our work has on patients.
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“Cancer research is beyond important, it gives people like me a sense of hope” – Markus’ leukaemia story
Markus was shocked when he was diagnosed with the blood cancer chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) in 2021. Determined to break down barriers and start conversations about cancer, Markus turned to art as a way of sharing his experiences.
“I feel increasingly optimistic about the future” – Gemma’s myeloma story
When personal trainer Gemma Seager, 45, injured her back while lifting weights, she assumed it would improve with rest. But after 10 months of pain, she was diagnosed with myeloma, a type of blood cancer, in June 2021. Thanks to treatment, she currently has no evidence of disease in her body and recently completed the London Marathon.
“I am fortunate to be five years in remission and can plan for the future again” – Claire’s blood cancer story
In April 2019, Claire Shepherd, now 34, began feeling unwell and constantly fatigued. Having initially put her symptoms down to her hectic lifestyle, she was shocked to be diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Now, six years on and following successful treatment, she is in remission and making the most of every day…
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‘I know when it comes back, the next treatment will be waiting’ – Cecelia’s myeloma story
Cecelia Brunott, 48, was diagnosed with myeloma in 2020. She had a stem cell transplant and is currently taking a targeted treatment to keep her cancer stable. She lives in Farnham, Surrey, with her wife Eva.
“When I was diagnosed with leukaemia, I never thought I would still be here” – Karin’s story
Karin Manchester, 65, was told she had a week to live after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a type of blood cancer, in 2004. Thanks to successful treatment and taking part in a clinical trial, she has been in remission for over 20 years.
“A cancer diagnosis at the age of 16 is a lot to process” – Roslyn’s story
Roslyn was 16 when she was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer. Now 27, and following successful treatment, she is running this year’s London Marathon to mark 10 years being cancer-free and to raise funds for our vital research.
“I wake up every morning feeling grateful to be here” – Julius’ myeloma story
Julius, 66, is a Black Belt 6th Dan karate instructor. Having been fit and healthy all his life, he was shocked to be diagnosed with stage 3 myeloma, a type of blood cancer, in September 2019. Now, thanks to treatment, he is in remission and continues to enjoy the martial arts that have been his passion for over 40 years.
“I’m glad to be doing something that links me to mum and dad” – Emma’s story
Emma Godden, 51, has lost both her parents to cancer. Her dad, Arthur, passed away in 1986 when she was just 13 and her mum, Pauline, died in 2018. She reveals why she hopes to make a difference for cancer patients in the future by running this year’s London Marathon to fund our vital research.
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