On 23rd October my sister Ashleigh was admitted to hospital as she was struggling to breathe and there were indications that she was bleeding internally. After blood and bone marrow tests, we were informed that Ash had a rare type of Leukaemia known as Acute Promyelocytic Leukaemia (APL.) On this day Ash was put onto a ventilator and was sedated as her oxygen levels were too low for her body to breathe on her own, because of this Ash was then admitted to the Critical Care Unit. 

As Ash's body was still struggling to cope on her own, her sedation levels had to be increased, which meant that she was temporarily paralysed to allow the machines to take full control of her, in order to stabilise her breathing. Throughout this time Ash was constantly being given blood, platelets and plasma to help stop any bleeding that may occur, as well as chemotherapy to inhibit the Leukaemia. 

On 25th Ash's oxygen levels were reduced, which was a positive sign. But she required a new line to be inserted into her neck so that her kidneys could be supported with a type of dialysis. Alongside this she had another line inserted into her nose which went down to her stomach so she could be fed. 

Since the 26th Ash has shown signs of improvements as she is now eating for herself, her breathing is better and has been moved to a haematology ward.  

All of this has come as a massive shock to my family and I, especially because Ash works as a PE Teacher, plays lots of sports and is incredibly healthy. 

Ash's health has improved, but as I'm sure you're aware, the Leukaemia treatment will be an ongoing process for the foreseeable future. This is why I will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on 23rd January 2020, any donations would be extremely appreciated for this cause as it means a lot to my family and I.  

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