In August 2022, at the age of 18, Luke was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma a type of bone cancer.
“I was in sixth form and led quite an active lifestyle. I would go to the gym nearly every day after school. One day after I got back from the gym, I noticed that my left leg looked a little swollen. I didn’t think much of it at that time. However, the swelling continued, and it became very painful to walk.
I ended up going to the doctors, where they told me it was a blood clot. I was given some injections and medication to help stop the growth. These did work for a few weeks and the swelling reduced, but it wasn’t long for the swelling to come back even worse than it was before. Following this, I was sent to the hospital for some scans, along with a biopsy, where I was then told I had Ewing Sarcoma, a type of bone cancer.
Before the diagnosis, I always had this idea that it could never be me, as it was so far away in my head in a sense. I had no idea how to feel when the doctor sat opposite me and said the words, ‘you have cancer.’”
From August 2022 to April 2023, Luke was given chemotherapy as an impatient on the Teenage and Young Adult ward (TYA) at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre Liverpool, three to four days every two weeks.
And in November 2022 Luke’s left leg was amputated.
“Due to my age, I was treated on the TYA ward. The staff were always so nice and upbeat and were able to relate to me about similar things in our everyday lives. Having this type of connection on the ward really helped me feel less alone during my treatment, something that I will always be forever grateful for.
My treatment continued over Christmas and despite having to come in, there was a lovely atmosphere around the hospital during the holiday season. I remember receiving a festive bag of sweets which I really appreciated.”
Since treatment, Luke and a group from the TYA ward took part in a podcast project run by FACT Liverpool in partnership with The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, funded by the Charity.
“Since feeling more like myself again, I have begun to take part in a lot of activities that the hospital have organised, which I’ve really enjoyed. I most recently took part in the FACT podcast project. This was such a good experience, as it allowed all of us to get an understanding of the behind-the-scenes in sound design, as well as being able to use professional equipment.
Since taking part in these activities, I have been able to move on with my life a lot easier, as well as develop relationships with other patients on the TYA ward and the FACT team.
This is why I’m supporting this year’s Fairy Appeal for everything they have done for me.”
One in two people will be affected by cancer during their lifetime, but thanks to vital research funded by Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, outcomes for patients continue to improve each year, enabling families to continue to make special memories together.
“This year I’ll be spending Christmas with my family and friends. I always look forward to Christmas every year because it brings everyone together to spend time with each other. Now that I’m getting more and more mobile again with my walking, it has allowed me to enjoy this time of year like I used to.”
If you would like to support our Fairy Appeal and dedicate a Fairy for someone special this Christmas, then click here.
