In May 2019 when I was just 15 I was diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. I had been very active in sport and the diagnosis was a huge shock to my family and I. I played rugby with Sheffield Swans and Wakefield Trinity Ladies and swam for City of Sheffield Swim Squad. I am not sure I could have been more healthy?! Despite this, the tumour in my lower leg was such that I was subjected to a relentless programme of chemotherapy which lasted for almost a year and involved five days in Weston Park Hospital with a week's break for the entire period. In addition to this I had to have my lower leg amputated to try and stop the cancer spreading further and had a whole host of medical procedures including 14 blood transfusions. The support I received from numerous charities, Weston Park Hospital and my rugby families were nothing but amazing and I hope to give a little back to them all for their support. I am not in a position where I am 'better' and still have to have 12 week scans - which given COVID19 can be difficult - but I am determined to live my life and make the most of every moment.

My patient fund (in 2020) raised in excess of £45,000 (for the Teenage Cancer Trust) and whilst I am still keen to support their work I hope to raise the awareness of other charities and projects who work with children and young adults with cancer, and use the rugby community to raise their profile and 'promote' my story.

Find more of my story through my instagram: @olivialulu._