In September 2011, Lydia was diagnosed with pancreoblastoma, which had spread to the liver, she was only 5 years old. She had chemotherapy but on boxing day, we were told the devastating news that it was terminal. Fast forward 11 years, and Lydia has just been selected to compete in the World Tansplant Games in Perth, Australia, to represent Great Britain in swimming!!!
Against the odds, she has survived. She has had numerous operations over the years, the removal of 3/4 of her pancreas, the removal of her spleen and a live liver transplant from her mum. She has a hearing loss as a result of the chemotherapy and has regular hospital appointments.
Last year was a particularly difficult year for Lydia. Not only had she shielded through covid, but she had been generally unwell for some time, after two liver biopsies and tests, she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and blockages in her bile ducts. She had three operations between September 2021 to April 2022 and had a tube fitted from her liver, to help widen the bile ducts. This was insitu for 7 months.
Not being able to swim really upset her, it is the one thing that has helped her through everything.
Once the tube was removed, Lydia got back in the pool and won 2 gold medals and 3 silver medals at the British Transplant Games in Leeds this year.
Lydia truly is an inspiration. She lives life to the full and regardless of being immune suppressed and diabetic, she has her heart set on completing at the World Games.
Being selected is one thing, but getting her there is another. Everything is self funded so if anyone would like to support Lydia and me (to accompany her...it is my liver after all!)it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you xx