Darcy Blakeman was just three-and-a-half years old when she received the life-changing diagnosis of cancer. She underwent three years of chemotherapy at Birmingham Children’s Hospital and was the first child there to ring the End of Treatment Bell, marking her remission.
Though this was an incredible achievement, Darcy had missed many of her early childhood milestones and faced the challenge of catching up. Demonstrating remarkable bravery and determination, she persevered through these obstacles.
Last weekend, Darcy’s parents accompanied her as she began a new chapter, dropping her off at the University of York. They expressed great pride in all she has overcome and achieved.
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Darcy’s mother, Deborah Burrows, from Seisdon in Wombourne, shared that when the hospital approached Darcy about telling her story of going to university, she was eager to participate. Darcy’s motivation was to reassure others facing uncertainty that the future can still be bright and lead to a normal life.
“She wanted to offer reassurance that it’s just the beginning of the journey and you can follow a normal path,” Deborah explained. “You don’t know what the future looks like and you’re worried that it will be something not normal. Seeing someone further down the line, you can think ‘hopefully that will be us.’ It’s just a piece of the jigsaw, not the whole story.”
Back in May 2012, Darcy was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, a rare type of blood and bone marrow cancer. She was immediately admitted to the oncology ward to begin treatment.
Now 18, Darcy reflects on her experience: “I’m really grateful for the care I received at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Those difficult years are just one small piece of my jigsaw, and they haven’t stopped me from having a really normal and happy life. I was quite poorly at times, and I know it must have been a worrying period for my family, but I also remember the many great opportunities and celebrations such as finishing treatment and ringing the End of Treatment Bell in 2014.”
Deborah added, “We didn’t think of the future back then, everything was uncertain. The years have gone by since finishing her treatment and we became confident she would lead a normal life. She worked really hard through school to catch up and never considered herself any different from her friends, aside from attending hospital appointments regularly. Looking back, we’re incredibly proud.”
Darcy also manages rheumatoid arthritis and administers a weekly injection. This university year is her first time living away from home. Deborah says, “All mums worry, but she is used to taking medication and very sensible. She was determined not to be near home; she was ready to spread her wings.”
Her resilience was recognised by her sixth form, where she received the Head of Year Award and was praised by the headteacher as embodying the school’s values. Deborah remarked, “She takes everything in her stride. Diagnosed young, she never developed fear about her illness and has been very matter-of-fact ever since. She definitely has a can-do attitude, and we’re really proud of her.”
Studying social and political sciences, Darcy said, “I’ve been lucky to have many amazing friends and have really enjoyed my time at high school and sixth form. I’ve had many experiences and memories that have nothing to do with cancer, from holidays and school trips to just enjoying time with people around me. I’m very thankful to everyone at Birmingham Children’s Hospital who cared for my family and me.”
Deborah highlighted the ongoing support from the hospital, saying, “The care has been amazing. She attends annual reviews, and the receptionist remembers her from when she was three. They become like family, following that journey with you.”