In June 2023, Freddie was just 8 years old when his family received devastating news that would change their lives forever. What started as what seemed like stubborn tonsillitis lingered and worsened, prompting further investigation. Scans revealed a large and aggressive tumor behind his palate — a rare form of cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma nasopharyngeal cancer. The mass was so big it bulged into his palate, severely impacting his ability to breathe.

In July 2023, Freddie underwent a critical surgery to debulk the tumor. Surgeons successfully removed the majority of it, but about 10% remained, posing an ongoing threat. Shortly after, he had a Hickman line inserted to begin a grueling and relentless treatment journey.

Over the next year, Freddie endured an intense treatment regimen: nine rounds of chemotherapy, seven weeks of daily proton beam radiotherapy at UCLH in London, and a full twelve months of maintenance chemotherapy. Along the way, multiple surgeries were required, including central line replacements and the fitting of a gastrostomy feeding tube—which he still relies on today. To preserve his future, doctors also performed fertility preservation procedures, offering hope beyond his immediate fight.

The battle was brutal. Side effects weighed heavily on Freddie and his family: frequent infections, temperature spikes, episodes of neutropenia, and overwhelming fatigue. He needed countless blood and platelet transfusions — each one a stark reminder of how essential blood donors are in the fight against childhood cancer. Every transfusion was a lifeline, underscoring the vital role that donors play in keeping young patients like Freddie alive.

Yet through every challenge and setback, Freddie’s resilience shone through. His bravery and determination became a beacon of hope—not only for his family but also for his dedicated medical team and the wider community following his story.

Now 11 years old, Freddie has officially completed his treatment—a milestone that his family celebrates with immense gratitude and relief. But the fight isn’t over. Freddie remains high risk, and the road ahead is marked by constant vigilance. Every three months, he undergoes MRI scans and chest X-rays, which his parents call their “bible.” They endure the gut-wrenching anxiety before each scan and the agonizing wait for results afterward, living with uncertainty while cherishing every moment of progress.

For Freddie’s mum, the impact of cancer goes far beyond hospital walls. “The emotional and physical trauma a cancer diagnosis brings to the family doesn’t end when treatment finishes,” she shares. “Our lives have changed forever. But as a family, we’re learning to adapt to our ‘new normal.’ We will always be profoundly grateful for how far Freddie has come and for the incredible fighter he is.”

Freddie’s story is one of courage, survival, and ongoing challenges. His family has learned to celebrate every victory, no matter how small, while living with the constant shadow of uncertainty. Their world may never be the same, but it is undeniably brighter because Freddie continues to fight—with a smile, with hope, and with a spirit that inspires everyone around him.

As part of our Go Gold campaign for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Freddie’s journey stands as a powerful testament to the reality many children and families face. His story highlights the urgent need for continued research, advances in treatment, and unwavering community support. It also underscores the critical importance of blood donors—the unsung heroes whose generosity saves lives like Freddie’s every day.

At just 11 years old, Freddie is already a warrior, a survivor, and an inspiration. His courage in facing unimaginable challenges reminds us all why the fight against childhood cancer must continue—until no child ever has to face this battle alone.