Hi. My name is Patricia Locker. I’m 44 years old, and have a wonderful 13 year old son. The reason you’re reading this is that I’m appealing for your help.
Last year, on my birthday in July, I was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and was told I had just 17 months to live. It’s difficult to imagine what it feels like to be told this kind of news. I was scared, angry and confused… but determined to fight on to share more of my son’s life.
I had radiotherapy in August 2011 and this did shrink the tumour. However, it’s only possible to have this treatment once because of the risks it presents, and the damage it causes to healthy cells around the area treated. The other best-known treatment, chemotherapy would not get rid of my cancer, only reducing my symptoms.
So I researched alternative treatments to get rid of the cancer, and discovered a new and promising treatment called sonodynamic phototherapy (SPDT) was an option. I contacted the Dove Clinic in England – the only place in the UK to currently offer the treatment – and was told I was a suitable candidate for the treatment… but that it is not available to me on the NHS. It costs £10,000 plus a consultation fee of £300, on top of which I also need to include travel costs to and from Belfast for the treatment. That’s why I’m appealing for help from you to raise funds.
As my cancer is thoracic, it’s both difficult to reach and treat, and terminal. SPDT, together with other holistic treatments such as a specialised natural diet and other supplements, provides the best opportunity to fight the cancer. SPDT works by consuming an algae which stays in the cancer cells: these are then eliminated with a very localised light therapy. The Dove Clinic has experienced success with this treatment, with one patient suffering from the same cancer as I, and given a life expectancy of 6 months, is still alive 5 years later.
I want to have this treatment so I can have the opportunity to see my son grow up. As a mother he means everything to me. He said that if I die it will change him, he’s scared he’ll become quiet, withdrawn and not the same person any more. I want to do everything I can to stay alive for my love of my son, and his welfare.
I hope that people can help with my appeal to make it possible for me to have this treatment. I hope to do this as soon as possible, as the cancer is aggressive and has already spread to my lymph nodes. However I am determined and am doing everything I can to raise awareness, funds, and to fight this in any way I can.
Thank you so much for your time and generosity.
Patricia x
