My Story
My name is Joe Ball, on March 12th 2010 I was diagnosed with leukaemia, a week before my fourth birthday. My mum and dad realised there was something seriously wrong with me when I lost my appetite, became lethargic and developed a red pinprick rash on my neck. I was immediately transferred to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, where Blood tests revealed I had Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL). It is a rapidly progressing cancer of the blood which affects the white blood cells known as lymphocytes and are vital parts of the body’s immune system. I started an intensive course of chemotherapy which caused me to lose my hair and I found it difficult to walk. I finished treatment three years later and I am now fit and well and enjoying life at St Peter’s Primary School in Lytham. Our experience as a family means we understand all too clearly why Cancer Research UK’s work is so important, which is why I'm taking part in a Race for Life 5k with my mum to raise money and save lives. Every single pound you donate makes a difference to Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work, so please sponsor me now. Donating through this page is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with Cancer Research UK.