Teen's life-changing medical journey opens doors for future treatments

Last summer a regular teen life of Harry Brown turned upside-down. Between hiking in Iceland and playing tuba in brass band this seventeen year-old didnt notice subtle signs: just some headaches and being tired

His journey started when his god-mother (a doctor) told his dad to get him checked. At hospital things moved fast - doctors found he had acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and brain complications. “We would get through this together“ his family decided that day

The treatment path wasnt simple: standard methods didnt work so Harry joined ALLTogether program; but after it failed he became one of first young patients in ground-breaking CAR T-cell trial at Great Ormond Street. Being in isolation wasnt easy but the medical-staff made it better

The Teenage Cancer Trust unit became his second home - with pizza nights and music sessions. Support came from many directions:

• Parents took turns staying at hospital
• Brother visited almost daily
• Friends brought games and shared memories
• Hospital staff provided emotional support

Physical challenges were tough - daily blood tests needle-pokes and various medical tubes; plus dealing with treatment side-effects that will need life-long care. Last x-mas instead of being home Harry had to stay in hospital due to complications

Now about half-year after finishing main treatment; he goes to hospital twice monthly. But life moves forward - Harry returned to sixth form started cycling again and enjoys nature walks. His experience shows importance of clinical trials: they need to be more available for teens who often dont fit age requirements for either kids or adults programs