03/11/2025
When faced with a life-changing diagnosis, many people search for ways to make sense of their experience. For former LHCH patient Emma, poetry became her way to heal, reflect and inspire others.
Now, five years on from her diagnosis — and recently given the all-clear — Emma has marked this milestone with a beautiful poem capturing her life-changing journey.
Here, she shares her story with us:
“In 2020, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. After a stay in hospital with pneumonia in December 2019, my 12-week check-up X-ray showed something concerning, so I was sent for further tests. After a PET scan, lung function test and bronchoscopy, I was referred to LHCH. A biopsy confirmed that I had a malignant carcinoid tumour in my right lung.
“Other than feeling a little lethargic, I hadn’t noticed any symptoms. I was only 27, had never smoked, and lived a fit and healthy lifestyle – I just couldn’t understand it.
“When I was told about the treatment I needed, I was so scared. The surgery was huge — I had to have just over a third of my right lung removed. My operation took place during lockdown, so I couldn’t have any visitors, but LHCH made me feel completely safe.
“My consultants, Mr Julius Asante-Siaw and Mr Richard Page, were absolutely incredible. I still remember the porter who calmed me down on my way to surgery — we chatted about football, and it made all the difference.
“The teams on Oak Ward, Cedar and ICU were simply incredible. They cared for me with such compassion — sitting and talking whenever I needed, brushing and plaiting my hair when simple tasks were difficult during recovery. I cannot thank them enough.
“After surgery, my movement was limited and I had a large scar and drains. When I first saw my scar, it was daunting — but I couldn’t believe how neat it looked. I call it my shark bite now, and it’s something I’m so proud of my life-saving scar.
“I was discharged after six days. It was bittersweet — I was so happy to go home and see my loved ones, but the hospital had felt so safe and caring.
“Recovery has been a whirlwind of emotions, but I’m just grateful to be here and healthy. I recently received my five-year all-clear after a CT scan in August. Now, I find it much easier to talk about everything I’ve been through. That’s why I decided to put my thoughts into words — if my story helps even one person, that’s enough for me.”
Thank you for sharing your story with us, Emma. We’re so glad to hear how well you were cared for during your time at LHCH, and we’re inspired by your strength, positivity and beautiful words of appreciation.