A Wirral mum has given birth to a daughter following her recovery from stomach cancer a second time.
Erica, a patient at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, was initially diagnosed at the age of 18 whilst in the middle of her A Levels.
Erica, now 35, was experiencing severe and reoccurring anaemia before her diagnosis, including symptoms such as extreme tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath, and she is sharing her story to raise awareness of stomach cancer:
“It was a shock and pretty scary to be told I had cancer at 18 years old, you never think it’ll happen to you. I’m so glad I trusted my gut – literally - and went to my doctor when I was concerned.”
After undergoing surgery to remove part of her stomach, Erica went on to complete her A-Levels and go to university. However, the cancer returned nine years later, which led to Erica having the rest of her stomach removed and a section of her liver.
Erica’s mum, Heather, recalls what it was like to hear both the original diagnosis and that her daughter’s cancer had returned:
“My world came crashing down. But my daughter’s resilience is incredible and totally inspiring. She went through multiple surgeries, followed by radiotherapy, and stayed so strong.”
Heather, from West Kirby, Wirral, wanting to help other patients and parents going through the same, now volunteers at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre on the Wirral and in Liverpool, and can be found pushing the tea trolley round, chatting to patients:
“Erica received life-saving treatment and the most wonderful care at Clatterbridge, and 18 years on, continues to be monitored and treated by the amazing staff there. The least I can do is give a little bit back by volunteering. There’s nothing better than hearing the bell being rung by patients celebrating the end of their cancer treatment.”
Erica has undergone further treatments over the last 10 years, but is now in remission and has recently given birth to a daughter, a little sister for her son:
“I hope to be an example for people who have recently been diagnosed with cancer. It’s not the end of your life; it’s just a chapter in it. I feel very lucky to be here today with my two beautiful children and family around me.”
