Member of the Month April 2025

In August 2023, life changed in a way no one could have imagined. At just four years old, Abigail began experiencing unexplained headaches and episodes of vomiting. What started as a worrying but seemingly isolated symptom quickly escalated. As her condition worsened, a visit to A&E led to an MRI—and the devastating discovery of a large mass in her brain.

By the end of September, just a day before her big sister’s 10th birthday, Abigail was rushed by blue lights to Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Four days later, she underwent major brain surgery to remove the tumour. The diagnosis: Medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer most commonly found in children.

Abigail returned home just six days after surgery, showing remarkable resilience. But the journey was far from over. Within a month, she was back at Addenbrooke’s to have stem cells harvested and to begin an intense treatment plan—six rounds of chemotherapy, including one high-dose round.

Over the course of her treatment, Abigail spent a total of 145 nights in hospital, including the Christmas holidays. She endured more than 140 needle pokes, received over 30 blood products, and had her dressings changed more than 90 times.

One of the lasting side effects of chemotherapy was hearing loss, and she now wears a hearing aid. But through it all, Abigail has shown strength beyond her years.

Today, she remains NED (No Evidence of Disease) and continues to undergo regular MRIs to monitor her health. Her courage, positivity, and fighting spirit have inspired everyone around her.

Abigail’s story is not just about a diagnosis—it’s about bravery, hope, and the unwavering support of family, friends, and medical teams. She is, without a doubt, an absolute inspiration.