A biopsy confirmed I had an osteosarcoma in my shin bone and I was told that my leg may need to be amputated. I started chemo on the 7th of August 2003 and had 3 sessions before my operation on the 16th of October 2003.
I then had 3 more sessions of chemo and 2 blood transfusions, and then on the 31st of December I was allowed home. This was a very emotional time as I was still very ill.
I was fitted with my artificial limb and received physio to learn how to walk with it. I am now pleased that I now only have to go once a year for my check ups, which was such a relief.
Three years on I have a completely different life. I am always on the move, never at home for very long! I also have my own car which is a necessity for my independency.
I now have a "fancy" leg and a "sporty" leg, which has allowed me to Trek through Cuba for 5 days; this was a major challenge and an amazing experience. This has encouraged me to undertake more challenges in my life as I am now training to do the NY Marathon in the hope to run it in a few years time. In order to train for this I am going to the gym 3 times a week and trying to go swimming too at least once a week. I am also hoping to walk/jog the Baker Hughes 10K in May and the Moonwalk in June, in order to help me prepare for the Marathon I hope to achieve in the future. When I set my self a target I intend to achieve it!
In December 2008 I graduated with a BA in Management, I was studying part-time for 3 years which was extremely challenging and stressful at times but was well worth it when I received my scroll on the 4th December, I was so pleased to have achieved my goal. I am currently working at Technip an Oil and Gas company in Westhill in the Human Resources Department as an HR Assistant.
I enjoy speaking to other patients from the hospital to tell them my experience to give them hope and to make them see that your life doesn't end once you have had your leg amputated. I find this very rewarding and its good see other people coming through cancer and amputations too. I have attended a Hospital Visitor's Course to help me counsel other amputee which was extremely beneficial.
Donate now (This link opens in a new window) More about Osteosarcoma