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Years after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma at just 12 years old, Ash knows what's possible when research continues to move childhood cancer treatment forward.
My journey with sarcoma has shaped me, but it doesn’t define me.
Sarcoma is a rare cancer that develops in the bones or soft tissues. Treatments have improved over recent decades, but many children still face intensive therapy and long-term side effects. “Before my diagnosis, I had never heard of osteosarcoma, and I know many people are the same,” she says.
Ash underwent more than 20 rounds of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, including a tibia and knee replacement with a partial femur replacement. And although treatment ended, survivorship has brought its own challenges.
Learning how to process everything you have been through can be one of the hardest parts of the journey. The physical and emotional impacts can last for years, even after you are declared cancer-free.
While survival rates have improved over time, the rarity of sarcomas means there is less investment in research. “Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer in children and young people, yet it is still relatively unknown,” she says.
“Funding can be limited, but every breakthrough has the potential to improve survival rates, reduce long-term impacts, and give young people the best possible chance at the future they deserve.”
Every breakthrough helps improve survival while also working towards kinder treatments with fewer long-term impacts. That's why The Kids' Cancer Project continues to fund innovative childhood cancer research, from discoveries in the lab through to clinical trials. “Raising awareness helps start conversations, encourages support for families, and reminds people why investing in childhood cancer research is so important,” she says.
A year ago, Ash shared the story of her childhood sarcoma diagnosis and the challenges she faced. You can read her story here. Today, she’s looking forward and reflecting on how far she has come.
“One of the biggest highlights of the past year was having my final remission scans last month, which came back clear. It was a reminder of just how far I’ve come and how much has changed since my diagnosis.”
For Ash, the past year has been filled with milestones that once felt uncertain. She now works at an oncology clinic, where her own experience brings a unique understanding as she supports patients and families through some of their most difficult moments.
Outside of work, life has been just as full. She'll stand beside her sister as maid of honour at her wedding in October, celebrated her 21st birthday with friends and family, and continued to pursue her passion for fitness, competing in the 2026 CrossFit Open.
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Behind every diagnosis is a young person whose life has been completely changed. After everything my knee has been through, being able to challenge myself physically and compete in something I love is something I'm incredibly proud of.
Ash's story is a powerful reminder that every research breakthrough means more than just surviving cancer.
“My journey with sarcoma has taught me to appreciate every opportunity, celebrate the little moments, and be excited for what the future holds.”
