Amy was diagnosed in April 2020, with stage IV ALK+ lung cancer at just 20 years old. The cancer was found incidentally after she experienced back pain from a fall. Doctors identified lesions in her lung, lymph nodes and ribs. 

Amy told ALK+ International, "I was initially told I would have chemotherapy, but when I tested positive for a rare gene mutation called ALK-positive, it meant I would be able to go on a medication called Alectinib, a targeted therapy treatment. This meant I could take four pills each morning and evening with little side effects compared to a traditional chemotherapy treatment."

In early 2022, two years on from her diagnosis, Amy decided to get a second opinion from leading cancer hospital, The Royal Marsden, in London. "One of the oncologists specialised in ALK+ and suggested being proactive and carrying out radiotherapy on my remaining tumours." Amy underwent 23 rounds of radiotherapy in April 2022, which has led to some amazing results. She continues on Alectinib and has regular three-monthly C- scans and regular blood tests. 

"I am very grateful that the ALK+ International charity exists and that my mother is part of the hardworking team whose sole aim is to further research into my rare disease. If you were to meet me you would never know that I have stage IV lung cancer and this is thanks to vital medical research."

Amy adds, "Even though I do have certain side effects from my medications, I really try and not let it affect my life. I still go out with friends and family and go on trips with my boyfriend. I am very grateful for the love and support that I have around me."