Lily-May's story
Just before her first birthday, in 2016, Lily-May was diagnosed with a brain tumour and after four years of gruelling treatment was given the all clear. Last year, at the age of 6 Lily-May found out that her tumour had started re-growing…
Just days after celebrating her first birthday in 2016, Lily-May was diagnosed with a brain tumour called an optic pathway glioma. This marked the beginning of a long and challenging journey—one that would shape her childhood in ways no family could ever prepare for.
Lily-May endured four years of chemotherapy, countless hospital stays, and multiple surgeries, including:
- Brain surgery to insert a shunt to drain excess fluid.
- A tumour biopsy to better understand the type of cancer she was facing.
- Additional surgery to drain cysts surrounding the tumour.
Treatment took over every aspect of life. A simple cold could turn into sepsis, a life-threatening complication for a child undergoing chemotherapy. Hospital visits, feeding tubes, scans, blood tests, eye tests, and hearing tests became part of their daily routine.
Despite everything, Lily-May never stopped fighting.
Living with Vision Loss & Finding Strength
Due to the effects of her tumour and treatment, Lily-May is now blind in her left eye and has limited vision in her right. Her future will always be impacted by the tumour and the years of gruelling medical care she has endured.
But she refuses to let it hold her back.
Lily-May’s determination inspires everyone around her. She plays golf, insisted on trying out gymnastics, and absolutely loves school. Her passion for animals is unwavering, and she dreams of becoming a wildlife vet when she grows up.
Her resilience proves that childhood cancer does not define her—it’s simply one part of her incredible story.
A Setback in 2024
After four years of treatment, Lily-May finally had two years of stability, allowing her family to experience a sense of normality again. They cherished those moments, holding onto the hope that the worst was behind them.
But in early 2024, devastating news shattered that hope.
Lily-May’s tumour began to grow again, and she was forced to restart treatment.
The battle isn’t over, but neither is her strength.
How Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund Helped
Throughout this journey, Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund has provided much-needed support for Lily-May and her family.
- Holiday retreats – These respite breaks allowed the family to escape the constant medical battles and create precious memories together.
- Christmas gifts – Every year, Lennox brought joy and excitement to their home during the festive season.
“We are so grateful for their support,” says Lily-May’s mum. “Lennox has been there for us in ways we never expected, giving us moments of happiness in the hardest of times.”
How You Can Help
Lily-May’s story is a testament to the strength of children facing cancer—but no family should have to go through this alone.
Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund relies on donations and fundraising to continue helping families like Lily-May’s.
With your support, we can ensure that more families receive the emotional, financial, and practical help they need.