Chanelle Thornton

Chanelle was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) over twelve years ago. Initially the prognosis was not good but thanks to her inclusion on a drug trial for Glivec, her future soon looked to be more positive.

Following the news that Chanelle could take part in the drug trial for Glivec her hope restored and she started thinking about all of the things she wanted in life, one of which was having a family of her own. Doctors first believed that taking Glivec could not be combined with a healthy pregnancy, however with the world of medicine ever evolving, she was determined to not let this prevent her.

Research had shown that women had taken a break from their drug therapy to fall pregnant and give birth, returning to drug therapy once the baby was born. This was also a possibility for Chanelle. With the doctors approval, they started to try for a baby.

A minor fertility problem meant swiftly turning to plan B. The doctor said IVF treatment was an option and without hesitation, they took the next steps to making it happen. Chanelle responded well to the treatment and egg collection went smoothly.

Two weeks seemed like a lifetime, no more doctors, no more medication, just waiting to take a pregnancy test. Convinced it wouldn’t work, she reluctantly took the test and amazingly, Chanelle was pregnant.

Throughout her pregnancy, all the routine scans and checks were made, all confirming everything was normal and healthy. On Friday 30th November, their non-identical twin daughters were born. Eira and Meredith suddenly became a symbol of hope for all CML patients contemplating having a family.

“Life goes on beyond diagnosis; and it can be full of whatever we want!”

Do you know what the six most common signs and symptoms of leukaemia are? They are:

  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fever or night sweats
  • Bruising or bleeding
  • Bone/joint pain
  • Repeated infections

Are you currently experiencing any of these signs and symptoms? If so, contact your GP and ask for a blood test.

For more information on our Spot Leukaemia campaign, our goal and how to get involved, head over to our official Spot Leukaemia website at www.spotleukaemia.org.uk

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Employment

The following information is aimed at those who have been affected by a leukaemia diagnosis and the associated issues raised with employment

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