Wish stories

In November 2022, Seth received the devastating diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia, an aggressive cancer of the white blood cells. Although he went into remission, he sadly relapsed in April 2024 and later underwent a stem cell transplant on 4th July 2024.

His illness has had a profound impact on his childhood, as he has missed long periods of school due to treatment and extended hospital stays. To make an already difficult time even harder, Seth’s beloved Grampy Alistair was also diagnosed with cancer around the same time Seth was first diagnosed.

Despite everything he has faced, Seth, now 14, has refused to let life get him down.

“Regardless of everything, he has kept his witty sense of humour and his desire not to have anything sugar-coated,” said his mum, Emma. “It’s also been a tough few years for me. I had a stroke in December 2021 and became partially paralysed, and then Seth became unwell. I’ve been with him in hospital from day one, at every stay and every appointment since his diagnosis.”

While undergoing treatment, Seth developed a real passion for rugby, which helped him through the long hospital stays and gave him something positive to focus on.

More recently, Seth got to experience his first live rugby match at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham – and it completely blew him away.

“He could not believe how amazing it felt to be at a live game, where the fans spoke to him and he could watch the players in action,” explained Emma. “He loved the atmosphere and said it was great to do something that wasn’t about hospitals.”

When Seth found out he was getting a wish, his imagination immediately sparked. It was no surprise that he wanted to return to Allianz Stadium for another match – this time with the whole family.

On the day, the family travelled to the stadium together, ready for a day of fun. Although the weather was drizzly, it didn’t dampen their spirits.

“We honestly had the best time,” recalled Emma. “We had seats right at the front, behind where England were kicking off in the first half, so we could see everything. Both Wales and England fans were having a great time, and everyone cheered when Wales scored in the second half. There were fireworks and a DJ as well – the kids absolutely loved it. We said we wanted to go every week!”

Seth had hoped to meet Marcus Smith, as he is a big supporter of Harlequins, and also Henry Pollock, who comes from close to where his Grampy lives. But the true highlight of the day for Seth was watching George Ford and his incredible kicking performance.

Most importantly, the match gave the family some much-needed quality time together after everything they had been through – and everyone was delighted to see England win. 

“We got a lovely photo of the boys with their Dad and Grandad,” said Emma. “I even got in a photo too, which was a big moment for me because I’ve been self-conscious since my stroke.”

Seth is continuing his recovery following his stem cell transplant and is doing well. He still has regular hospital appointments, but his love of rugby and sense of humour are helping him stay positive and look forward to the future.