Cancer battler CAMMY SMITH has travelled to Glasgow for treatment ahead of a life-saving op.
The 25-year-old, who was diagnosed with leukaemia for the second time in October, will have a bone marrow transplant next Thursday.
Starting today, Cammy, from Summerhill, will be writing a weekly diary in the Evening Express detailing his treatment to try to inform and inspire other North-east people touched by cancer.
HELLO from Glasgow. My name is Cameron Smith and I’m here in the Beatson Cancer Centre to have a bone marrow transplant.
In 2011, I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
Later that year, I thought I was cancer -free after hearing I was in remission, and was later discharged.
After 14 months at home, enjoying my life, I then relapsed last October.
This was a massive blow.
I am now in remission and have just started my conditioning treatment to prepare my body for my stem cell transplant.
This week started off with some very strong chemotherapy which was then followed by four days of full-body radiation. This is to destroy my bone marrow and my stem cells to prepare for new ones from my donor.
I cannot thank the donor enough for giving me the chance to live my life.
The chemotherapy I’ve had so far has been pretty different to any others.
It’s much stronger and alcohol based, which leaves me feeling drunk. I even get a hangover – but without the fun part.
My fiancee Stephanie and my mum have come to stay here.
The nurses have made me feel at home.
I had reflexology last Friday from a charity called the Friends Of The Beatson.
They have a large ward across from mine which has a cinema room, hairdresser, smoothie bar and massages.
Steph and my mum are allowed to take advantage of this too, as it’s a very stressful time for us all.
Aside from the fact I have cancer and am undergoing life-saving treatment, it feels like a holiday with all these amazing facilities.
One thing I am missing is my wee girl, Lilly. She is at home with Steph’s mum but we FaceTime every day.
She arrives tomorrow, which I can’t wait for, and I know Steph is really missing her too.
I want to thank everyone who has supported me, Steph and our families.
We love reading all your lovely good luck messages on our #weareallcammysmith Facebook page.
I might not be feeling great for next week’s update but, will keep you all up to date.
By the next time you hear from us I will have had the transplant and will be dealing with the toughest part of all.