North Shields mum and daughter 'just kept going' when they had cancer at the same time
by Sam Volpe · ChronicleLiveA North Shields mum has told how she and her brave little girl "just kept going" when they were both diagnosed with cancer at the same time.
In September 2022, on the eve of her third birthday, little Lily Walker was diagnosed with cancer. Her dad Anthony had spotted a tumour on her leg.
Her mum Cindy was already undergoing treatment for breast cancer at the time. Two years on, the pair are both in remission and now Lily has been given a special award for her bravery. She has been given a Cancer Research UK Star award.
Lily had rhabdomyosarcoma - a cancer of the soft tissue - and there was a lump in her calf. She has had to have much of the muscle removed and been through months of chemotherapy.
Mum Cindy said: "Lily faced months of intensive chemotherapy and major surgery, which made her very poorly and she lost all her hair. The surgery also meant she’s had to learn to walk again, but she’s never been phased by any of it.
"Fortunately, she doesn’t really remember me being poorly, but I was going to her appointments during my own treatment and following a double mastectomy, but we just kept going and now we’re both in remission."
Lily's now started school and mum Cindy said she was going from strength to strength. She said: "She’s doing really well at school and adapting well. Her leg does get tired easily, which means she can trip up more often but she’s just getting on with it.
"Lily’s cancer hasn’t stopped her doing any of the things she loves, and despite having limited use of her right leg, she rides her bike, does front flips and dances away. She is the most happy, well behaved girl and we couldn’t be more proud of her.
"Just two years ago, we spent most of Christmas in hospital in the middle of her treatment, so now we enjoy every moment and look forward to celebrating together cancer free."
The star awards are open to all under 18s who live in the UK and have been treated for the disease within the past five years. As well as a star-shaped trophy, Lily also received a £50 TK Maxx gift card, t-shirt and a certificate signed by celebrities such as TV's Dr Ranj Singh.
Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the North East, Lisa Millett, said: “A cancer diagnosis is heartbreaking at any age, but it can be especially hard for youngsters. Lily is a real star who has been through so much at such a young age and it is an absolute privilege to be able to celebrate her courage with a Star Award.
"Cancer in children and young people is different to cancer in adults, from the types of cancer to the impact of treatment - and many may experience serious long-term side effects. That’s why we’re supporting dedicated research to find new and less toxic ways to beat this devastating disease.
"We’re urging people in the North East to nominate inspirational children like Lily for a Star Award, so that many more can receive the acknowledgement they so richly deserve.”
This is the second award Lily's had this winter - just weeks ago she was made given a Brave Heart gong by the Brave Hearts of the North East charity at a glitzy St James' Park ceremony.
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