Peterborough teen supports cancer charities from hospital bed

Bethany is determined to help others and raise awareness

A teenager who is receiving treatment for a rare form of ovarian cancer is raising money and awareness for cancer charities from her hospital bed.

Bethany, who lives near Peterborough, spent more than six weeks in hospital over Christmas, and has now returned for radiotherapy treatment.

The 13-year-old is supporting a number of different charities by making and selling colourful loom bracelets.

Her mother Tina said Bethany's family were "as proud as punch".

Bethany is raising money for a number of charities with the loom bracelets

Bethany is supporting International Childhood Cancer Day on Thursday and is raising money for Target Ovarian Cancer, Young Lives vs Cancer, Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group over the coming months.

Tina said: "She makes us so proud every single day. The radiotherapy is making her tired, but she's really doing brilliantly.

"We wouldn't be so good if she wasn't so positive. She is an inspiration to all of us."

Bethany began feeling unwell in the summer before her diagnosis

Bethany was diagnosed last year when an MRI scan revealed she had a large mass around her ovary, and because the cancer - called small cell carcinoma hypercalcemic type - had a genetic link, both of her ovaries had to be removed.

She has had four operations and six rounds of chemotherapy - before enduring high-dose chemotherapy before Christmas.

The charity, Ovarian Cancer Action, said it was unusual for teenagers to develop ovarian cancer, which was more frequently diagnosed in women in their 50s.

Well-wishers from around the world sent cards and presents after hearing about her story and treatment in Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge.

Bethany said: "I'm very very grateful to my medical team, and very happy and grateful for the messages I have received."

On raising awareness, she said: "Don't just assume that something like this won't happen, and if something is not right, get it checked."