Childhood Leukaemia Survivor Supports Research for Gentler Treatments

A mother from Surrey, who overcame leukaemia during her childhood, is now advocating for research aimed at discovering less aggressive cancer treatments for children and other vulnerable patients. Hannah Moore, 28, from Guildford, received a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at the age of two-and-a-half. Her treatment regimen included multiple rounds of chemotherapy, routine blood tests, and lumbar punctures before she achieved remission. However, medical professionals had indicated that a potential long-term consequence of the treatment was infertility in adulthood for Hannah. Now, having given birth to three children, Hannah expresses her pride in supporting the transformative work funded by the research charity Leukaemia UK. She stated: “When I was 18, I went for my last appointment on the children’s ward and they talked me through the possible long-term effects including on my heart, which would need regular monitoring, and also that it was very unlikely I would be able to have children and I would probably have early menopause.” When Hannah met her now-husband, Carl, at the age of 21, they began trying for children. She remarked: “I was so relieved when I did fall pregnant. I would have been heartbroken if I hadn’t been able to have children. They were all completely normal pregnancies and babies, although the consultants did keep a close eye on me throughout. It was such an amazing feeling when each baby was here safely. Now, I just want to be the best mother I can be for them.” She further commented: “I am incredibly proud to support the charity Leukaemia UK. The research taking place is incredible and is going to be lifesaving.” Each year, Leukaemia UK awards four grants, each worth £150,000, to early career researchers. Dr Yang Li from University College London, one of the recipients of this funding, is utilizing the money to explore gentler, more effective alternative treatments for vulnerable patients, such as children and individuals who have experienced a relapse. It is anticipated that Dr Li’s research will help to reduce the side effects commonly associated with current treatments. For updates, follow BBC Surrey on Facebook and X. Story ideas can be submitted to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.