'Kind, precious, beautiful and giving soul': Family appeals for support for Nelly, 18, battling lymphoma
The family of 18-year-old Nelly McKnight is asking for support as she continues to battle Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Nelly was just 17 when she was diagnosed with blood cancer. Before her diagnosis, she was a healthy young woman looking forward to her future.
Her mum, Fran, described Nelly as a 'kind, precious, beautiful and giving soul', and said it was the teen's idea to start a GofundMe page to help.
"We're a fiercely independent family, but Nelly wanted to help. That's the kind of person she is," she said.
"Since her diagnosis, Nelly has faced a very difficult treatment journey. She has had intensive chemotherapy, including chemotherapy into her spine, and has suffered several serious complications.
"These have included two collapsed lungs, blood clots in her lungs and serious Staph infections. She also needed surgery to remove a large tumour from an area between her lung and heart."
Nelly has spent long periods in hospital and has had to be moved between hospitals during her treatment. She is now under the care of the Teenage Cancer Trust Young Adult Unit at St James' Hospital in Leeds.
Despite everything she has been through, her family says she continues to do her best to cope with the physical and emotional challenges.
The GoFundMe aims to help pay for things that could make Nelly's life more comfortable during her treatment.
Fran said: "One of the main aims is to help pay for a semi-permanent hair system, which costs around £6,000, with regular maintenance needed every six weeks."
The money could also help pay for mobility aids, therapies and other support to improve her quality of life.
Nelly asked to share her story in the hope that people might be able to help.
Her family is asking for donations, but says that sharing her story or leaving a kind message would also mean a lot.
Fran said the family has been touched by the kindness of friends, family, even strangers and people from their past who have donated.
The family said: “From Nelly and all of us, we would love to thank you in advance for your kindness, whether that be a small donation, a share or a positive comment.”
To donate or leave a message of support, visit Nelly’s GoFundMe page here.