A teenager diagnosed with cancer just weeks before she started university said getting the all clear has made her ‘grateful’ for life.
It’s been less than a year since 19-year-old Tiffany Williams’ entire life was put on hold after she was diagnosed with the lymphatic cancer Hodgkin Lymphoma after doctors noticed some lumps on her neck during a routine appointment.
Her plans to begin a four-year degree course studying tourism management at the University of Chester, as the first step on her life ambition of owning a hotel abroad, were thrown into doubt when she had to undergo urgent chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Despite the gruelling treatment which caused her to lose her hair, Tiffany, of Stratford Road in Blacon, kept a positive attitude throughout, continuing with her studies as best she could and remaining resolutely determined to beat the cancer and get on with her life.
And this week her wish came true when doctors gave her the all clear of cancer, six weeks after her final round of chemotherapy, and Tiffany now wants to use her experience to inspire other people dealing with cancer, and encourage them about the importance of staying positive.
Tiffany told The Chronicle: “There were a few times when the illness knocked me back and I was unable to go into university but I was determined to still go whilst juggling chemo and I haven’t failed yet! I’m determined to complete my course.
“The treatment made me very tired and drained so I would go in all happy and full of life and come out tired and sleepy with no energy. I coped well with chemo, although it did make me very tired and sick but I was very lucky with my disease in that I was able to cope and still continue normality.
“The nurses at the Countess will probably remember me for my fear of cannulas and the amount of attempts it took to put one in, or the expressions on my face that put them off putting one in! But it’s those nurses who have made my journey so much better - they always have concern and always want to listen to what you have been doing or if there is anything wrong - they all have hearts of gold,” she added.
“My mum, family and friends have been so supportive it’s unreal. I told everyone to not ask how I was the majority of the time because I hated it and felt I was no different than anyone else or to give me sympathy because it would remind me of being ill.”
Life is gradually getting back to normal for Tiffany, who is now living with her boyfriend, starting driving lessons and going back to the gym.
“I was so determined I would continue life normally and not be separated with an illness,” explained Tiffany. “I did have to shave my hair as the third cycle made it very thin and it fell out everywhere so I was constantly reminded of it, so I shaved it.
“I would laugh about having no hair and about shaving it off but I knew it would grow back fresh and healthy so it didn’t bother me.
“The journey I’ve been on has made me open my eyes to life and to realise that tomorrow, something else could happen so you take every day as it comes.
“It has made me a lot more grateful and to be thankful for what we have in our everyday lives. I never once cried going through chemo but I cried after I was told I had the all clear - it was a day to remember.
“I want everyone to know that with a positive mind there is always a positive outcome and I will always offer my advice or any help to any others or friends suffering such a horrible disease,” she added.
