Ellen was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in September 2023, the day after her 18th birthday. From the outset her attitude was inspirational: she was determined not to be defined by the disease and to continue living life to the full.

In December Ellen began her treatment at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care at The Freeman Hospital in the Teenager and Young Adult (TYA) section of Ward 34. Initially, she responded well to chemotherapy treatment, so much so that she completed her mock A levels, getting all A* and securing a place at King’s College University London to study International Business. She maintained her studies with Newcastle 6th Form College, winning their Business Studies Student of the Year award, which she was able to collect in person on 23rd April.

Sadly, things changed for the worse. Ellen fought incredibly bravely against this horrible disease, always with a positive attitude, a smile and an amazing sense of humour! In the end it was too much. She passed away unexpectedly in Clare’s arms on Thursday 23rd May at the hospital. We are devastated and still struggling to believe what has happened to our gorgeous, intelligent, fun daughter. Only a week prior we were walking and playing on the beach with her and her beloved dog Storm.

As a family we were, and are, supported by the small team of TYA staff who are funded by charitable donations. Their mission is to ensure that every young person with cancer receives prompt diagnosis, the best possible treatment, and age-appropriate care and support from specialist professionals trained in caring for young people with cancer and their families. They did this, and continue to do so, with sensitivity and great efficiency.

We are therefore raising funds to go directly to support this fantastic work. Any donations, large or small, would be greatly appreciated and enable the TYA team to continue supporting families like ours.

With thanks, Clare & Paul