Mark’ Story

In 2015 I was diagnosed with Myelodysplasia, MDS. in 2020, Prime COVID time, the MDS
transposed into Acute Myeloid leukaemia. I was admitted to ward 33 at the Freeman hospital in
early October 2020. I had 3 lots CPX chemotherapy to kill off the leukaemia cells, and spent just
over 5 weeks in hospital.
I went back into Ward 33 on December 4th 2020 and was put in an isolation cubicle. I underwent
conditioning chemotherapy and total body irradiation. The day after theTBI I had a stem cell
transplant and my donor was my daughter Aimée.
The cubicles are superb, there’s a large screen tv, a couch, comfortable chairs and your own
bathroom. They are nicely decorated and feel more homely than being on the normal men’s ward.
Bright Red had raised money to make those improvements. It really helped my mental health
being in a more comfortable environment.
I was in the cubicle during the Christmas and New year period, a total of 6 weeks. The comfort and
amenities in the cubicles really helped me to cope with the chemotherapy treatment, transplant and
the side effects. At Christmas I also received a goodie bag from Bright Red, which was a wonderful
thing to do, it really boosted my spirit. Bright Red made my stay in hospital much more comfortable
and eased my worries about being in hospital for such a long period
On Christmas Eve morning, despite being really unwell, I dressed up as Santa to surprise the
Nurses. They really enjoyed it.
I came out of isolation to go home on 6th Jan 2021. Recovery takes a long time, when I left
hospital I could hardly walk. However in Jan 2022 I did the Bright Red challenge 33 for 33, walking
33 miles during the month of January to raise money for Bright Red and ward 33. I wanted to give
something back for everything they had provided during my stay.
Unfortunately my leukaemia came back in April 2023, I have had some more intensive
chemotherapy in June on Ward 33. I went back into ward 33, cubicle 8, on the 24th August 2023
for some more chemotherapy. I had my second stem cell transplant on the 30th August. My donor
this time is from Australia.
I came out of cubicle 8 on the 15th September to go home.
Some of my worries and concerns about being in isolation are eased because I know how
comfortable and welcoming the cubicles are and with the fabulous nursing care that ward 33 are
renowned for, I know am in safe hands.
Bright Red raise a lot of money and provide support to help people in the North East diagnosed
with blood cancers and blood disorders. It is a fantastic small local charity that helps so many
people, it’s why I’m an ambassador for Bright Red. I want to give something back to help Bright
Red maintain that support for future patients and all the good work that they do.
During January 2024, I decided to undertake the Bright Red 33 for 33 challenge walk. Which
entails walking 33 miles during the month of January 2024 to raise awareness of Bright Red and
raise some money for this wonderful charity.
I was 4 months post transplant when I started the challenge, however I was determined to do it. I
found that not only has it helped my overall fitness level it also helped with my mental health. Being
able to get out into the countryside was so uplifting. The first walk I did was 1.2 miles, the last walk
I did was just over 3.5 miles. I must admit it was tough going at times but overall I really enjoyed it.
Some friends came with me on some of the walks, some brought their dogs, which was lovely.
I have received lots of support and donations not only from family and friends but also from people
on social media. All of which I can’t thank enough, they are truly wonderful people.
I am now in remission and long may it stay that way.