Motherhood after childhood cancer: Natasha’s Story – What Comes After Surviving

I was 15 when I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a blood cancer. It was in 1989, totally unexpected and I was shocked; what would the future hold?

I had high- dose radiotherapy followed by chemotherapy. And here I am now, aged 51 on the other side of that challenging moment. Back then, I would have loved to meet someone who was 51 and hear their story. So today, I have the privilege of being that person for you.

When I went into remission and never relapsed, I felt like I had been given a new life. I had changed, matured. I carried scars and memories, but I understood that life had been given back to me and I took it and run with it.

I met my husband when I was 17, fell in love and got married. We’ve just celebrated 30 years of marriage; like a real-life Cinderella story.  We’ve travelled the world, had fun and still do. We have also been able to build a family too, with four children and one grandson. Looking at them, I am constantly reminded that despite struggles, doubts, pain and suffering, life is also beautiful.

To a mum reading this

May my words be like a bouquet of flowers. May my story remind you of the sweet perfume of life’s joys, the rewards that come in many forms. Sometimes what may seem insignificant to one person, is a victory and a milestone to another. When I went into remission, my mum slept for a whole week.  She could finally rest. And now, she looks at me and feels hopeful and confident about the future.

Her bouquet was me.

To a child, a teenager or young adult reading this

Your story is still being written. I want to pass you the baton in this relay of life. Every lap of your running track, whatever that looks like, is a new victory. You’ll have moments where you feel tired, even fed up. But keep going. You’ll be amazed at how strong you already are. Life isn’t just about surviving, it is about overcoming and becoming the unique person the world needs.

Let’s hope and love carry you forward, with the belief that good things are on their way. May you, too, experience a resurrection into life, just as I have.

May your story become a triumph.