Powys family enjoying this Christmas after 'the worst year of their lives'

Eight year-old Kathryn Pope had been unwell for a month or so this time last year, suffering stomach pains and occasionally feeling sick.

Despite blood tests from the GP coming back clear, she was not getting any better and the family had no idea what was wrong. Little did they realise then, that 2024 was to be everu family’s nightmare.

Kathryn’s mum Jayne said: “On January 4 2024 I took Kathryn to A&E in Hereford with severe stomach pain and nausea….we did not come home for five months!

“Kathryn was diagnosed with Burkitts Lymphoma, a rare form of cancer, and we were immediately transferred to Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital in Cardiff, where Rainbow Ward (the oncology ward) became our home for the next five months. 

“The level of care and support given to Kathryn, and us as a family was second to none. The staff on Rainbow Ward, and the whole of the staff at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital, are simply angels! 

“And the Welsh Children’s Cancer Charity, LATCH, helped us as a family with everything from providing toothbrushes and toothpaste for those first few horrendous days, to emotional and financial support throughout our time as in-patients in Cardiff.”

Almost a year on and Kathryn’s intense treatment has been a success and the family are now at home. Now nine, Kathryn is returning to school and all the activities that she was doing before the diagnosis. 

Jayne said: “Her stamina is increasing, and her hair is growing back with a beautiful kink to it! She is now determined to raise money for LATCH, who have been with us from the start, and she has already raised over £1,000 through her birthday money and giving up sugar for September, which was no easy feat. 

“She has many more fundraising ideas for throughout the year, and she really has been an inspiration to so many people after what she has been through!”

The family are enjoying the simple pleasures of Christmas, their favourite time of year anyway.

Whilst Kathryn will be having regular check-ups for many years to come, they are enjoying making every second count, whether that be cwtching up on the sofa watching a film, seeing family and friends, or making memories in many other ways!

Jayne said: “As this year draws to a close, and I reflect on what has, without doubt, been the worst year of my life, I find myself truly grateful for not only Kathryn’s recovery and now good health, but also for our family and friends locally and across the world – you never know how much you mean to a community until something happens, and the outpouring of love and kindness that we have received has been overwhelming!

“So in 2025 we are going to enjoy each other, enjoy moments together and not put off until tomorrow what can be done today, especially if there is laughter and fun involved – the dishes can always wait for another 10 mins! Loved ones, family and friends, are the most precious things in our lives, cherishing them and making time for them will definitely be top of my New Year’s Resolutions.”