Gran months from dying meets 'angel' who saved her life

17 December 2023 , 21:03

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Jude Rowley, from Shropshire, received a lifesaving transplant

A grandma who was months away from dying has thanked the stem cell donor who gave her the “priceless” chance to make memories.

Retired dog walker Jude Rowley, 56, was told by doctors she did not have long left after different treatments for her aggressive bone marrow cancer and leukaemia failed.

But then Jake Fairhurst proved a stem cell match and in 2021 Jude had a transplant.

Meeting Jake for the first time two years on, Jude, from Shropshire, said: “I’m so grateful that he was willing to do such a selfless thing to save a stranger. He’s an amazing young man.

“My granddaughter was born on the day I went for the scan that diagnosed cancer. Jake’s given her the chance to get to know me and make memories. It’s priceless.”

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Jude recently met her donor, Jake Fairhurst, for the first time

Jake, 25, had joined the Anthony Nolan stem cell register after seeing a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service appeal to save a young girl in his town before matching with Jude.

The electrician, of Lochgelly near Edinburgh, said: “It was an amazing feeling to know what a difference I’d made.”

Volunteer firefighter Cameron Carmichael, 20, is the 100th person to donate cells through the partnership between the charity and Scottish fire service.

Anthony Nolan boss Henny Braund said: “This incredible milestone of 100 stem cell donors is hugely appreciated.”

• Learn more about the stem cell register at anthonynolan.org/sfrs

Warren Manger