Christmas came early for an inspirational Cupar youngster who only 24 hours earlier completed her final chemotherapy treatment.
Agatha King, 6, was a guest of honour at the Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens Star Awards party, held in partnership with TK Maxx in London.
The magical winter wonderland-themed party gave brave children and their families – some of whom have missed out on festive celebrations in the past due to cancer treatment – a memorable experience.
Agatha’s mum Karen said: “Last year we didn’t get the Christmas we were hoping for as Agatha was in and out of hospital for treatment.
“She even missed out on her school nativity play which she had been practicing for at home.
“It was heartbreaking.
“So for Agatha to finish her treatment yesterday and come here and celebrate at this magical winter wonderland party today is just amazing.
“Today has been the start of what we hope will be a very happy future for our little girl.”
Agatha was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2015 when she was aged four.
Complaining of tummy ache, at first an allergy was suspected but then a rash developed, leading mum and dad Karen and Kevin to fear meningitis.
Since being diagnosed the Fife youngster and her family have been through a lot, including countless stays in hospital.
Treatment has been juggled alongside family life – her sister Meredith will celebrate her second birthday next week while brother Bacchus is four.
When Meredith was born, her cord blood was tested and it came back to be an exact match with her sister.
That means if Agatha needs a bone marrow transplant, Meredith can be the donor.
Now no two days are the same, and often plans are abandoned.
“There have been so many setbacks.”
Despite everything, Agatha’s family were determined that she had some amazing experiences.
A year ago, she presented a posy to the Queen at the opening of the Scottish Parliament and has met the stars of Hairspray.
Looking to the future, the family have hopes for a sunshine holiday with grandparents, a long-held ambition for Agatha.
Karen added: “This summer we are hoping that Agatha can start to learn to ride a bike.
“She hasn’t had the strength to do something most children her age are doing so it’s great to see her working towards these things.”
Linda Summerhayes, Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens spokesperson in Scotland, said: “It is an absolute privilege to be able to recognise the strength of youngsters like Agatha who have been through so much at such a young age.”
To donate or fundraise visit
cruk.org/kidsandteens
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