Understanding acute myeloid leukaemia
Learn about AML, its signs, and how early awareness can make a profound difference. Our journey with Millie has taught us the critical importance of understanding this aggressive disease.
Recognising the signs of AML
If there is one thing we hope people remember about Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), it is that it can develop incredibly quickly, and recognising the signs and symptoms early can make a life-changing difference.
AML often appears with symptoms that can easily be mistaken for common childhood illnesses, which is why it is so important to trust your instincts if something doesn't feel right. Persistent tiredness, unexplained bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, bone or joint pain, pale skin, or a fever that simply won't go away should never be ignored. If these symptoms persist or you are concerned, always seek medical advice.
A diagnosis of AML doesn't just affect the child—it changes the lives of their entire family in an instant. From hospital stays and treatment to the emotional and physical challenges that follow, every member of the family is impacted in ways they could never have imagined.
By raising awareness, learning to recognise the warning signs, listening to our children, and trusting our instincts as parents and carers, we can help more families receive the support, answers, and treatment they need as early as possible. Greater awareness has the power to save lives, and together we can help ensure that no family faces this journey without hope.
Millie's brave journey with AML
AML changed our lives forever in less than 24 hours. One moment, Millie was our happy, loving, bubbly little girl, full of laughter, adventure, and endless love. The next, our world had been turned upside down by a diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). It all happened so quickly that we barely had time to process what was happening.
Our normal family life was suddenly replaced by emergency hospital visits, countless tests, intensive treatment, fear, and uncertainty. In what felt like the blink of an eye, everything we knew had changed. The future we had imagined was no longer certain, and every day became focused on helping Millie through the toughest battle of her young life.
Despite everything she faced, Millie showed incredible courage, strength, and determination. She faced every challenge with a smile that could light up the room and a kindness that touched everyone she met. Even on the hardest days, she continued to bring happiness to those around her, reminding us all what true bravery looks like.
AML didn't just affect Millie—it affected our entire family. It changed our daily lives, our plans, and our future forever. It showed us just how precious every moment together really is.
Although Millie is no longer with us, her love, bravery, kindness, and beautiful spirit continue to inspire everything we do. Through Team Millie, we are determined to keep her memory alive by raising awareness of how quickly AML can develop, supporting children and families facing childhood cancer, and raising vital funds for the Great North Children's Hospital. If sharing Millie's story helps even one family recognise the signs sooner or reminds someone to trust their instincts, then her legacy will continue to make a difference.
Seeking vital support and information
Looking back, the most valuable support would have been clear, honest information alongside practical and emotional guidance. When your child is diagnosed with AML, everything happens so quickly that it can feel impossible to process what is happening. Having someone explain each stage of treatment in simple terms, what to expect day by day, and where to turn for emotional, financial, and family support would have made an enormous difference. We also wish we had known that it was okay to ask questions, to accept help, and to take each day one step at a time. No parent should have to navigate childhood cancer feeling overwhelmed or alone. Every family deserves compassionate support, reassurance, and access to the information they need throughout their child's journey.
"Team Millie not only raises essential funds but also shines a light on the often-overlooked realities of childhood cancer, offering a beacon of hope and support."
A supporter of Team Millie