Amy Carroll, 34, is preparing to give birth nine weeks ahead of schedule after a devastating discovery. Initially attributing her dizzy spells to gestational diabetes during her fourth pregnancy, Amy’s condition took a startling turn when she experienced a seizure at home. Rushed to hospital in the early hours of June 17, scans soon revealed a harrowing diagnosis: stage four brain cancer with seven tumors.
Doctors at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford confirmed that the brain cancer is secondary, originating from breast cancer Amy battled and overcame in 2021. The urgency of her situation has led the medical team to plan an emergency C-section on July 6, when Amy reaches nearly 31 weeks of pregnancy. This early delivery will enable her to begin vital radiotherapy treatment immediately.
Amy, a support worker and mindset coach from Great Addington, Northamptonshire, shared her emotional journey: “This pregnancy saved my life because I didn’t realize I was ill. After my breast cancer treatment, I was told I could never have children, so this baby is truly a miracle.”
READ MORE: M5 Traffic Comes to a Halt in Gloucestershire Following Campervan Overturn
READ MORE: Gloucestershire’s T20 Blast Playoff Hopes Dented by Warwickshire Defeat
Her fight with breast cancer began following cosmetic surgery after breastfeeding, which unexpectedly led to the discovery of a lump. “I had chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and eight surgeries. The cosmetic surgery saved my life because without it, I wouldn’t have known about the cancer,” Amy explained.
The news of her secondary cancer has been a massive blow, but her partner, Torrin Sirus, 36, remains by her side. “We found out over Christmas that I was pregnant, and the due date was on my birthday – that made it feel even more special,” Amy said.
Now, with her baby’s early arrival imminent, Amy is hopeful yet anxious about what lies ahead. “I’ll be under general anaesthetic for the C-section. I just hope to see him when I wake up. Babies born at this stage usually recover well, and the doctors have been very reassuring.”
She and Torrin have chosen the name Arlo Atlas Sirus for their son. Though joyous, Amy faces a challenging road. “Once treatment starts, I won’t be able to be with Arlo all the time. During chemotherapy, I won’t be able to touch him, which will be heartbreaking.”
Amy is also concerned about the side effects from her surgery and treatment, which might include memory loss, balance problems, vision issues, and speech difficulties. “I don’t want to forget my life or my kids,” she said quietly.
Amy is mother to three other boys, aged 18, 12, and 8, who have yet to visit her in the hospital. “They’re coming to see me before the surgery. We plan to have a nice day out just to enjoy some normality during this tough time.”
Since overcoming breast cancer, Amy has been an active fundraiser and supporter for others facing similar battles. A close friend, Kirsty Wilkinson, recently set up a JustGiving page to support Amy’s current fight. “I was really touched by the generosity. I’ve fundraised for others before but never for myself. It means so much.”
Amy’s strength and determination continue to inspire those around her as she faces this heartbreaking but hopeful chapter in her life.