Sophie, United Kingdom

United by Unique – A Personal Reflection on World Cancer Day

Today, on #World Cancer Day, I want to take a moment to celebrate my beautiful twin sister, Charlotte, and reflect on the profound impact of cancer on both our lives.

In February 2005, Charlotte was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma —a highly treatable blood cancer. Yet devastatingly, she passed away unexpectedly just four months later.

Nearly 20 years on, in July 2023, I was diagnosed with the exact same cancer. My journey had a different outcome thanks to advancements in screening, diagnosis, treatment, and care. With the incredible support of UCLH, I underwent successful treatment and am now in remission.

This year’s World Cancer Day theme, United by Unique, deeply resonates with me. Though Charlotte and I were identical twins, our cancer journeys were not the same. My survival is a testament to how far cancer research and treatment have come in two decades.

Today, I honour Charlotte’s memory and hold deep gratitude for those working in oncology— breaking boundaries, saving lives, and caring deeply. Let’s continue pushing for better awareness, research, and care to save more lives.

#WorldCancerDay #UnitedByUnique #CancerAwareness #Gratitude #InMemory