Bike fall reveals cancer and saves Kelly Hudson's life

Oct 5 2009 by Helen Rae, The Journal

Intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy sessions followed, during which the Jarrow School pupil lost all her hair and at one point was confined to a wheelchair.

Kelly said: “It has been very difficult since my operation.

“I was on crutches all of last year and I’m constantly walking with a limp. I missed a lot of school too. I used to like horse riding and trampolining but I can’t do any of that anymore.

“I also get embarrassed about how my leg looks and don’t like to wear skirts, like other girls my age.

“The worst part about having cancer was when all my hair fell out. It made me cry because my hair was long and it was really upsetting.”

Kelly has been in remission for two years and doctors are keeping a close eye on the teenager to make sure the cancer does not come back. She goes for check ups every three months.

But, despite it all, she is back on her feet.

Mum Fiona said: “There is no doubt Kelly has had bad times, which she still has, but we are all so proud with how well she has coped. I can see she is having a lot of good days now and is going from strength to strength.”

Both Kelly and Fiona were supported by the Charlie Bear for Cancer Care charity, based at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care.

Kelly added: “Charlie Bear was really helpful as the staff at the charity are lovely and helped supported me and my mum – they always cheered me up when I was feeling down.”