
Sandra, left, is devoted to her grandaughter 5 year old Nancy, who is recovering from leukaemia
Family means everything to Sandra Hughes. A devoted grandmother from Birmingham, she has always been there for her children and grandchildren, cherishing their close-knit bond. But when her granddaughter Nancy was diagnosed with leukaemia at just three years old, their world was turned upside down. Now, Sandra is on a mission to give back to Cancer Support UK for the kindness they showed her family during their most difficult time.
A family’s heartbreaking journey
Nancy had been a healthy little girl until, just weeks before her diagnosis, she began suffering from persistent chest and eye infections. Despite repeated visits to the doctor, Sandra and her daughter Lisa, Nancy’s mum, were dismissed time and again. They knew something wasn’t right and continued to push for answers. It wasn’t until Nancy developed a swollen tummy that Lisa took her straight to the hospital – where their worst fears were confirmed.
The words “acute lymphoblastic leukaemia” shattered their world. Within moments, Nancy was blue-lighted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital and admitted to the cancer ward. “You hear the word ‘leukaemia’ and you think it means she will die. I’d actually planned her funeral in my head,” Sandra recalls. But through all the fear, Nancy remained an inspiration. “She never once complained about her treatment. She’s stronger than all of us.”

Sandra says Nancy, right, has never once complained about her treatment. “She’s stronger than all of us.”
The impact of a Kids’ Cancer Kit
During Nancy’s treatment, Sandra came across Cancer Support UK and applied for a Kids’ Cancer Kit. When it arrived, it was a moment of pure joy. Packed with comforting and practical items – including a beloved Warmies® bunny – it provided much-needed happiness during an incredibly difficult time. “I saw Nancy’s face light up when she opened her package. Some kind people had donated this, and it meant so much,” Sandra says.

Nancy adores the warmable cuddly sensory ted that kind Cancer Support UK supporters sent her at Christmas
Wanting to give back, she decided to fundraise for Cancer Support UK. Over the past two years, Sandra has organised birthday fundraisers and a Christmas appeal, raising enough money to fund 30 Kids’ Kits. “It’s the smaller charities that make such a difference. People donated even when they didn’t know us, just because they wanted to help children like Nancy.”
Giving back, one step at a time
Sandra continues to raise funds and awareness for Cancer Support UK, ensuring other children like Nancy receive the same kindness and support. “You want to give back to kids who are in the same position. When you’re down on your luck, it’s the kindness of people that means the most.”
Nancy’s cancer journey has changed their family forever, but through it all, their love and resilience shine through. Now, with Sandra’s fundraising efforts, more children facing cancer will experience that same kindness and comfort.
If Sandra’s story has inspired you, please consider supporting Cancer Support UK (whether it’s through making a donation, volunteering, or fundraising) and helping children like Nancy. Every donation brings a smile to a child in hospital.
Donate today and make a difference