Newport mum felt like she 'won the lottery' with treatable blood cancer diagnosis

Natalie, 52 and from Newport, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), a form of blood cancer in August 2024. 

The diagnosis came as an unexpected shock, with Natalie having described herself as "never had any health issues" and was "fit, active, and busy with life".

It was only when she began feeling unusually tired that she decided to have a blood test, initially thinking it might be a vitamin deficiency or menopause-related fatigue. 

But one Friday afternoon, while driving up the M6, she received a call from a senior consultant urging her to pull over immediately.

Natalie said: “They told me I needed to get to hospital straight away—I was at risk of a brain bleed, a stroke, falling, unconscious or going blind.”

She spent a week on the haematology and oncology ward at Shrewsbury Hospital, awaiting a firm diagnosis.

“At the time, they suspected leukaemia, but they weren’t sure which type. I was surrounded by people in the same situation— waiting, hoping, unsure of what was next. 

"I was around people who were facing difficult treatments, having intra-venous chemotherapy, with their prognosis completely uncertain.

"When I was finally diagnosed with CML, I actually felt relieved – it felt like I’d won the lottery. CML is a treatable, manageable condition—something that I was told wasn’t the case just 15 years ago.”

Natalie is now taking on Blood Cancer UK’s Walk of Light, which is set to take place at Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham on March 29. 

“I wanted to do something to give back because I know my treatment is only possible thanks to years of research, funding, and scientific breakthroughs. 

"If people hadn’t raised the money for research, I wouldn’t be where I am today. This event is a way to honour that.”

Natalie has been overwhelmed by the support she’s received, both personally and by her work in the insurance sector.

“I initially set a fundraising target of £500, but thanks to my network, we’ve raised £3,600, which has completely surprised me," she said.

"I love being part of a tribe and this walk will bring together people who share an experience they didn’t choose but are facing together. That sense of connection is really powerful.”

Speaking about Natalie’s story, Catriona Arends, from Blood Cancer UK, said: “Blood cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, with over 41,000 people being diagnosed with it every year. 

"Stories like Natalie’s are a powerful reminder of why we must keep investing in research; to keep more people with their families for longer. 

"If you want to take part in a Walk of light, you can. Whether it’s walking to keep the memory of a loved one shining bright, or to shine a ray of hope for someone as they face their darkest moments."

Those wishing to take part in the walk can sign up online at: bloodcancer.org.uk/get-involved/walk-of-light