Emily's Story

“All my friends were turning 18 and going out, and I was lying in hospital unable to move.” 

Emily had just left school when she suddenly became very unwell. What started as leg pain quickly spread, and she was rushed to A&E. 

She says, “After 11 hours, I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia and sepsis. The sepsis was so severe that I was immediately taken to intensive care and put in a coma. My parents were told the next 72 hours were critical; the doctors didn’t know if I would make it. Luckily, I woke up. 

“But because of the sepsis and the time spent lying in bed, I had completely lost the ability to move. I couldn’t even lift my hands or move my toes. So while enduring five months of intense chemotherapy, I also had to relearn to walk, eat and even dress myself. 

“I lost so much confidence as everything had to be done for me. I felt so different and behind from my friends. I also missed out on starting university to do primary school teaching – something I had worked so hard for. 

“Through it all, my best friend Kirsty stayed by my side. I don’t know what I would have done without her. She gave up so much – prom, holidays, her 18th – just to be with me. I can’t thank her enough. 

“The staff on Lochranza were also amazing. I had missed going to the Harry Styles concert so the nurses and I would have “concerts” singing along to his songs in my room. It really brightened my day. 

“It was really tough for my family too. They missed out on their own lives, refusing to leave my side and watching helplessly as someone they loved was so sick. I had to go to Glasgow for a stem cell transplant last December, so Christmas was far from normal for everyone. 

“I benefitted a lot from the support of Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity. Whether it was a walk to the shop to buy teddies or a friendly chat with an artist or youth worker, those small distractions helped me forget everything. I love visiting the shop staff now. Their faces light up when they see how well I’m doing.” 

Last week, Emily rang the bell on Lochranza ward, marking the official end of her treatment. Not only that but she has raised a staggering £4000 for both Lochranza and Teenage Cancer Trust – a thank you for the incredible care and support she received. 

She says, “I will forever be grateful to all the Lochranza staff – the nurses, physios, occupational therapists, dietitians, play specialist and so many others – for helping me through such a tough time. I hope the money raised can help to make other children’s hospital experiences a little bit better!”