Patient stories

Coping with the diagnosis of leukaemia and the subsequent treatment and uncertainties that lie ahead can be difficult for children and their families.

Hundreds of children are diagnosed with leukaemia every year but the disease affects each child and their family in different ways.

Below are the stories of some families who have kindly offered to share their experiences to help others understand what it’s like to live with leukaemia.

For a child's perspective of their experience of leukaemia, visit Chemo to the Rescue - a children's book on leukaemia (you will be re-directed to a different website - new window will open)

Holiday offer

If you have a child who has recently had, and is recovering from, leukaemia or another life-threatening illness click here to find out more about our offer of a week’s holiday in Tuscany, Italy.

If you would like to share your story, please email us your experience and contact details.

Caitlin Knutsson

In 2005, five year old Caitlin was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) while she and her family were living in Poland.

Caitlin’s mum, Mary tells their story.

Ben Smith

With a year of intensive chemotherapy now completed, eight year old Ben Smith still faces 2 years of maintenance chemo.

Ben’s Mum Anita tells us the frightening story of his diagnosis and of Ben’s inspirational bravery throughout this ordeal.

Hollie O'Brien

Hollie O’Brien was only four years old when she passed away, just four weeks after being diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia.

Hollie's Grandmother, Wendy, shares her story with us.

Charlotte Hutchinson

It came as quite a shock to the Hutchinson family when their active 13 year-old daughter Charlotte was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Nine months into treatment, Charlotte’s mother Pam shares their experience in her own words.

Louisa Buttery

Louisa Buttery was only three weeks old when she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Her parents Darren and Davina recall “All was well until her second week…she became congested, pale and experienced nose bleeds.”

Hollie Robinson

Hollie Robinson was four when she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). She is now 14 and has been in remission for 10 years. In her own words, she shares her experience of living with the disease.

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