Paul's story

‘It’s probably just a virus’

I was only two and a half at the time of my illness, so have little recollection of what happened to me. With the help of my parents, I will try and put this into words. In December 1982, at the age of two and a half, I became unwell. After several visits to my GP my parents were told it was probably just a virus. By mid-January 1983 I was still unwell. I was taken to my GP twice in two days with a high temperature. The doctor said I was obviously sickening for something and that I had a throat infection. I was prescribed antibiotics. The following day, because of my fever, I had a convulsion and was immediately taken to the closest hospital which was in Wordsley, Stourbridge. On arrival my parents were told that I was very, very ill. While they were talking with the doctors I developed a rash. They said it was septicaemia and, that night, I nearly died.

Blood tests – lumber puncture – diagnosis

The test confirmed that I had acute lymphoblastic leukaemiaBlood tests were carried out and showed that my red and white blood counts were very low. I would have to have a lumber puncture test – it was possible that I had leukaemia, or some other form of blood cancer. The test confirmed that I had acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. I remained extremely ill and was transferred to Birmingham Children’s Hospital, which was the nearest specialist centre in our area. I stayed in hospital for ten days. My parents told me that during that time they nearly lost me twice more – the infection was causing heart failure. I received several blood transfusions of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets as wells as further bone marrow tests.

Treatment begins

So in April 1983 I began my initial 12 weeks of intensive treatment, including radiotherapy to my head. I cannot remember a great deal about this, but I can remember going to hospital in Birmingham for my radiotherapy. I had to have a plastic mask made of my head. They did this by covering my head and face with plaster. You have to stay still until it dries. It was not a nice experience. After the 12 of weeks intensive treatment I was in full remission. My mum says I coped well with the treatment but there were times when I was very sick and had to spend time in hospital. Over the following three years I continued with chemotherapy. I had to have several breaks because of other infections. And half way through my treatment I had viral meningitis and my treatment had to stop for six weeks. My three years of treatment ended in April 1986. In September 1986, after my final bone marrow sample was taken, I was given the all clear.

My parents were well supported

My parents say that through all my time in receiving treatment they were supported by doctors and nurses at the hospital. They were also supported by social workers from various children’s cancer charities. This help and support made life more bearable for them and my younger brother. This is why I am so passionate about raising money for Children with Cancer UK. I would like to give back whatever I can, in the hope that it will give another family like mine the support they need at a most heart-rending time.

How you can help

If you’ve been touched by Paul’s journey, help us invest in the high quality research that really matters which would otherwise go unfunded. This helps to support children with cancer so they can be with their families for longer. Donate Now       Fundraise Here  

Have you or a family member been affected by childhood cancer?

Many of our supporters have been affected by childhood cancer – either through family, friends or their own personal experience. These patient stories can help inspire others to get involved with us, or can support our media work. If you have a story that you would like to tell, please contact us by email.