Julia Gumy

I chose to join the North Star Cancer Collective LEAG because my nine years of navigating my daughter’s cancer journey have given me a deep understanding of the challenges and barriers childhood cancer families face. My daughter was diagnosed with a rare form of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma - Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma - at just seven months old. She is now nine and, after several relapses, remains in treatment. Although she is stable and able to lead a semi-normal life, her condition is considered incurable.

My perspective reflects the experiences of families whose children live with cancer as a chronic condition, requiring continuous medical care and coordination across multiple systems of support. Living with cancer for so many years affects not only the child’s physical and emotional well-being but also the overall health and stability of the entire family. Through my involvement in several PPIEs and parent support groups, I have developed a strong commitment to patient advocacy and parental empowerment, especially when it helps families make informed decisions about their children’s care.

By joining LEAG, I hope to work collaboratively with parents, carers, patients, and key stakeholders to identify and advocate for the systemic changes needed to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for children with cancer and their families.