Kirah Line, a 23-year-old woman from Cambridge, had a remarkable journey of survival and resilience. She was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, a type of blood cancer, in July 2022. The news of her diagnosis left her in shock, and she described feeling like she zoned out after hearing the word “cancer.”
Kirah underwent four rounds of chemotherapy, which led to the loss of her hair. She shared that she initially thought she could handle it, but when it actually happened, she was devastated. By Christmas, her health took a turn for the worse, and she was placed in an induced coma due to developing sepsis.
During her time in the coma, Kirah’s mother, Michelle, visited her every day, providing support and care. When Kirah woke up three weeks later, she initially felt calm but was confused about her surroundings. She believed she had nearly drowned and had to be informed of her cancer diagnosis for the second time.
Despite the challenges she faced, Kirah is now in remission and has returned to education. She completed an access course and is set to study social work at Anglia Ruskin University in September. Kirah emphasized the importance of advocating for oneself, holding onto hope, and utilizing the support available.
Reflecting on her journey, Kirah acknowledged the highs and lows she experienced and the lessons she learned about herself. She highlighted the kindness of the healthcare staff and encouraged others to be proactive about their health, seek help when needed, and ensure their voices are heard.
Kirah’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding strength in challenging times. Her positive outlook and determination to give back through social work serve as an inspiration to others facing similar struggles. By sharing her story, Kirah hopes to raise awareness about the importance of self-advocacy and the healing power of support and hope.
