We are a group of Nicola’s friends, people who have laughed with her, leaned on her, grown up with her, and loved her for the incredible woman she is. Writing this is something we never imagined we would ever have to do, but we are coming together, united, to fight for our friend and to try everything in our power to give her the chance she so fiercely deserves. On the 2nd of October we were given
the earth-shattering news that our wonderful Friend, Partner, Mamma, Daughter and Sister, Nicola (Nic), has been diagnosed with an incurable cancer called Bilobar Hepatic Disease following an initial visit to the doctor on the 15th of August this year. In simple terms, Nic has secondary cancer in her liver, but despite extensive and exhausting tests, doctors have been unable to locate where the primary cancer began. This makes treatment incredibly difficult, and on the 13th of November we were delivered the most devastating blow imaginable: CUP (cancer of unknown primary) has extremely limited treatment options here in the UK, with the NHS only able to offer her palliative treatment. This heartbreaking diagnosis is especially hard to comprehend because Nic is only 39 years old and is otherwise the picture of health and strength. In the last year alone, she has completed a triathlon, a marathon, and is an avid cyclist, having also completed her first century ride this year. She lives in the Northwest and is a devoted Mamma to her three beautiful boys, Roux (9), Rex (8), and Jude (5), and partner to Matthew. She is the heart of her family and a pillar of love, energy and resilience to everyone who knows her. As Nic’s friends and family, we refuse to accept that her story should end here. We are fighting with everything we have to get her to the right place for the right treatment. There are promising and potentially life-saving options available in Germany and beyond, treatments that simply are not offered or licensed here in the UK for people with CUP. But time is not on our side. Each day matters, and we urgently need to get Nic to Germany as soon as possible to give her the best chance. Through the tireless research of Nic’s sister Laura, we’ve come across the work of Professor Vogl in Frankfurt, and he has become a huge source of hope. Time and time again, we’ve read about his experience with complex cancers like Nic’s and how his innovative treatments have helped many people manage their disease in ways they hadn’t been able to elsewhere. His approach has given many patients stronger outcomes, more stability, and in some cases a better chance at longer survival. Knowing that someone with his level of expertise exists, someone who has dedicated so much of his career to helping people in Nic’s situation, has been one of the few things keeping us going. We truly believe that getting her to him as soon as possible could make a real difference. However, Professor Vogl is only one part of the puzzle, and his treatments will need to be combined with other vital therapies potentially costing more than £100k. We never imagined we would find ourselves in this position, and we are pouring absolutely everything we have into giving Nic the chance she deserves. But the costs are overwhelming, and we cannot do this alone. Any contribution, no matter how small, will help bring us closer to getting Nic the specialist treatment she so desperately needs. To give Nic the best possible chance, we urgently need to raise funds to cover the cost of specialist medical treatment, as well as the travel and accommodation expenses involved. These treatments are not available on the NHS, and the financial burden is far beyond anything her family can manage alone. Every single pound raised will go directly toward giving Nic access to the care she desperately needs, as quickly as possible. If you are unable to donate, please, please share this page with as many people as possible. Every share extends our reach, broadens the circle of hope, and brings us one step closer to giving Nic the fighting chance she deserves. Thank you for taking the time to read Nic’s story. Your generosity, kindness and support mean more than words could ever express. With your help, we can get Nic to the treatment that offers her hope. Hope for more time, more memories, and the chance to keep being the incredible Mamma, Partner, Friend, Daughter and Sister she is. ❤️
