A brave and inspiring five-year-old girl, Fearne Stewart, who is currently undergoing treatment for leukaemia, took centre stage at the opening of Cancer Research UK’s new superstore in Glasgow. Fearne, from Blantyre, was diagnosed with leukaemia in April 2023 and has been receiving chemotherapy treatment, expected to continue for another nine months. Despite her challenging journey, Fearne is now in remission and started school this term, accompanied by her proud parents, Gary and Paula, and her younger brother Joseph.
Fearne’s story of courage and resilience has earned her a star award from Cancer Research UK. She was honoured to cut the ribbon and officially open the new Cancer Research fundraising superstore in Glasgow. This new outlet, described as “a superstore dedicated to saving lives,” is the sixth of its kind in Scotland, offering a wide range of goods like furniture, electrical items, clothing, and gifts, with profits contributing to funding cancer research.
The young girl’s battle with cancer began when she was rushed to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow after experiencing symptoms such as bruises, exhaustion, pains in her legs, night sweats, and weight loss. Fearne’s parents took prompt action after reading an article on Cancer Research UK’s website about cancer symptoms in children. Since then, Fearne has shown incredible strength and positivity throughout her treatment, which included several weeks in the hospital.
Fearne became one of the first children in Scotland to participate in the AllTogether-1 clinical trial, an international study funded by Cancer Research UK aiming to improve the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. She has been an inspiration to many, including her family, who have been by her side every step of the way. Her father, Gary, praised Fearne’s remarkable resilience and determination during these challenging times.
In addition to her medical journey, Fearne recently received the children and young people star award from Cancer Research UK, recognising her bravery. She, along with her family, participated in the opening ceremony of the new Cancer Research fundraising superstore in Glasgow. Despite the hardships she has faced, Fearne remains positive and is eager to help others in need.
Fearne’s father shared that she has already shown a keen interest in giving back by planning to sell homemade lemonade to raise money for charity. The family is glad for the opportunity to contribute and support the cause. Despite the obstacles, Fearne has made tremendous progress, enjoying school, joining clubs, and demonstrating incredible strength and spirit throughout her journey.