A mother in Wales, Phyllis Tyrrell, is facing a battle against time as she is determined to meet her first grandchild despite being given just months to live. Phyllis was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, underwent treatments, and was cancer-free for a while. However, in 2020, she was shocked to discover she had developed acute myeloid leukaemia, a rare side effect of her chemotherapy. Determined to fight, Phyllis had a successful bone marrow transplant in 2020 but was hit with devastating news in 2023 when her breast cancer returned, spreading to various parts of her body.
Despite exhausting treatment options in the NHS and being given a prognosis of six months to live, Phyllis, now 48, is clinging to hope as she eagerly anticipates her daughter Caitlin’s first child, due in February 2025. Desperate to be present for her daughter’s pregnancy and beyond, Phyllis and Caitlin are striving to make their dream of Phyllis becoming “nanny Phyllis” a reality. Phyllis reflected on her journey, expressing gratitude for surviving leukemia after a challenging transplant process. She acknowledged the support of blood donors that played a crucial role in her recovery.
Facing limited treatment options in the UK, Phyllis is set to undergo treatment in Germany, not available in her home country. Caitlin initiated a fundraiser to facilitate her mother’s treatment, which has garnered significant support. With a relentless spirit, Phyllis and Caitlin are resolute in their mission to fight the cancer in Phyllis’s liver, aiming to create more cherished moments together as a family. Despite the hardships and PTSD resulting from her health battles, Phyllis remains resolute in her fight, using her platform on Instagram to share her journey and raise awareness about cancer symptoms and the importance of blood and bone marrow donations.
Phyllis’s story is one of resilience, as she continues to make the most of life’s precious moments alongside her daughter, such as being a bridesmaid at family weddings. Their bond is unwavering, with Caitlin recalling pivotal moments shared with her mother and expressing a heartfelt desire to see her mother enjoy a beach walk, move freely, and embrace grandmotherhood. As Phyllis battles against the odds, the unwavering support of her daughter and the community shines brightly, illuminating the hope and strength that continue to guide their journey.