Sam was a fit and well 15 year old when all this started. Doing well at school, preparing for his GCSE's. Wanting to do something in public services eventually which led him to do his school work experience week at EMAS in July 2016. He is active in Derbyshire Army Cadet Force and has gained the rank of Corporal and has completed his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award. He also likes to spend time on his computer playing games.

In Jan 2017 Sam complained of some headaches and a loss of smell. We thought he had a cold or blocked sinuses until the left side of his neck became swollen. A few visits to the GP ended up with a referral to RDH. Things moved very quickly from here and Sam was transferred to QMC. Within a week we were told that Sam had an olfactory neuroblastoma. A very rare and unusual tumour. Treatment started immediately.

Sam has so far had 9 lots of chemotherapy, each requiring a 2-3 days stay in hospital. His response to the chemotherapy has been great and the tumour has shrunk. This now allows him to have the surgery that he requires to remove as much as possible of the tumour. Surgery scheduled during the summer of this year. He will then require radiotherapy.

Sam has been absolutely amazing during all of this. He has continued to go to school and cadets whenever possible. He has completed all of his GCSE's and attended the school leavers prom. He is planning a Macmillan coffee morning later this year as part of his 'cadet in the community' challenge which will raise funds for the Macmillan cancer charity. Sam hopes to be well enough to do a tough mudder for charity next year.