A schoolgirl from Somerset has been left mute and unable to walk after a routine eye test revealed a cancerous brain tumour. Amelie Williams, aged 12, was diagnosed with medulloblastoma after an optician noticed her eyes “flickering” during an eye check-up in March 2023. Following a 10-hour surgery to remove the apricot-sized tumour, Amelie faced significant challenges as she regained consciousness.
Her mother, Lydia Williams, shared that Amelie was mute for three weeks post-surgery, communicating through hand gestures and listening to audiobooks. Amelie underwent six weeks of radiotherapy, followed by nine months of chemotherapy and rehabilitation sessions to regain her movement and strength. Despite the difficulties, Amelie is now on a path of recovery and has returned to secondary school, slowly re-learning her sporting, singing, and beatboxing skills with determination.
Amelie, a sporty and arty individual before her diagnosis, has faced a tough journey since her routine eye test revealed the brain tumour. Lydia recalled the pivotal moment when the optician detected Amelie’s unusual eye symptoms, leading to a series of medical tests and ultimately the diagnosis of stage 4 medulloblastoma.
After the surgery, Amelie experienced posterior fossa syndrome, affecting her communication and motor skills. She had to relearn how to talk, move, and perform basic tasks. Despite the challenges, Amelie maintained a positive outlook, expressing her determination to overcome the obstacles and return to her passions.
Amelie’s journey through treatment involved radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and rehabilitation, during which she found support from family, friends, and digital support groups. She highlighted the importance of holding onto hope and connecting with others facing similar struggles. Artwork has played a crucial role in Amelie’s recovery, alongside the unwavering support of her loved ones.
Having completed her treatment in March, Amelie is focused on rebuilding her strength and skills. She has returned to participating in local clubs, teaching herself to sing and beatbox again, and embracing each step of her recovery journey. Through her resilience and positive mindset, Amelie serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
Amelie and her family received support from the charity Young Lives vs Cancer throughout her treatment. In the face of adversity, they have found strength and hope, emphasising that while cancer may bring fear and uncertainty, it is not the end of their journey towards healing and resilience.