On 31st July 2025, our world changed forever. 

It was the day we heard the words no parent ever wants to hear: 

'Your daughter has cancer.'

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia to be exact. 

In a matter of moments, life as we knew it stopped. The ordinary worries of school runs, weekend plans and what to cook for dinner were replaced with medical terms we'd never imagined needing to understand, treatment plans, hospital rooms and a fear that is impossible to put into words. The ground beneath us felt like it had disappeared.

Betsie's diagnosis turned our world upside down. Everything shifted. Our days now measured in blood counts, medication schedules, constant meetings and hospital visits. Home doesn't always look like home anymore, and 'normal' feels like a distant memory. There have been tears we didn't know we had in us, sleepless nights and moments of overwhelming uncertainty. 

But alongside the fear and heartbreak, we've also witnessed something extraordinary - our daughter's strength.

Betsie has faced pokes, procedures and days that would challenge even the strongest adult, yet she continues to show a courage that humbles us every single day. She is still her - still full of personality, still finding moments to smile and laugh, still reminding us why we fight so hard beside her.

This blog is our way of sharing her journey. It saves us from having to repeat difficult updates and helps us keep everyone who loves Betsie informed in one place. We'll share the highs and the lows, the progress and the setbacks, and all the moments in between.

Most of all, this space is about hope. Hope for healing. Hope for strength. Hope for the day this chapter is behind us. 

Thank you for standing with us as we navigate a path we never expected to walk. 

Your thoughts and your support truly means more than words can say. We hope this space helps keep everyone informed, and also reminds us all how powerful hope, kindness and community can be.