Jessica Corps: From Cancer Diagnosis to London Marathon for Teenage Cancer Trust
Jessica Corps, a 21-year-old from Cranwell in Lincolnshire, is championing Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month this April by recounting her emotional journey and preparing to run the London Marathon in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust charity.
A Sudden Diagnosis at Age 19
While training as an RAF medic in Lichfield, West Midlands, Jessica noticed unusual symptoms, including easy bruising and blood blisters on her face, which she initially attributed to anaemia. After experiencing an extremely heavy period, she called NHS 111 and was urgently directed to a hospital in Birmingham.
"I spent 16 hours in A&E," Jess recalled. "Doctors first suspected a urinary tract infection before moving me for blood tests. In the early morning, two doctors and three nurses approached me, and one abruptly stated I had cancer."
At just 19 years old, receiving this devastating news without her parents present—who were traveling from Scotland—was particularly distressing. "The blunt delivery made it feel like just another routine day for them," Jess said. "I was in total shock, and it was overwhelming to handle alone at such a young age."
Advocating for Better Cancer Conversations
Jessica is now backing the Teenage Cancer Trust's new Cancer Conversations campaign, which aims to address communication hurdles faced by young people aged 13 to 24 with cancer, along with their families and healthcare providers. She emphasizes that the manner of delivering such news can significantly impact a patient's experience.
"As a medic, I understand the challenges of sharing bad news," Jess explained. "But it's crucial that patients feel cared for, not just like a statistic." Despite the upsetting communication, she remains grateful for the swift medical action that likely saved her life, as immediate chemotherapy was administered upon diagnosis.
Tests later revealed that 97% of her bone marrow contained cancer cells, confirming an acute condition. She was transferred to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for treatment, where her parents arrived the next day after an overnight journey.
Support from Teenage Cancer Trust
During this traumatic period, Jess and her family received vital support from the Teenage Cancer Trust. Initially resistant, she eventually welcomed the help of Tracey, a Teenage Cancer Trust nurse, and Cathy, a youth support coordinator, who provided emotional care, information, and practical assistance like bringing juices and coffee when eating was difficult due to mouth sores.
"They checked in on my mum too, which was wonderful since she was away from home caring for me," Jess added. Her last treatment was in March 2024, and she is now cancer-free, undergoing bone marrow tests every three months to monitor her health.
Turning Experience into Empathy and Action
Having completed her medic training, Jess believes her personal ordeal has enhanced her ability to care for patients. "I can empathize with them, knowing what it's like to be in the hands of a healthcare team," she said. "Communication truly matters."
Dr. Louise Soanes, chief nurse at Teenage Cancer Trust, highlighted the importance of sensitive dialogue: "One conversation can change everything for a young person. The right words at the right time make all the difference, and we strive to get it right through our expert support services."
Running the London Marathon for a Cause
Jess will tackle the London Marathon later this month to raise funds and awareness for Teenage Cancer Trust. "It's a privilege to take on this challenge," she expressed. "I want to show that cancer can affect young people, highlight symptoms, and inspire others that recovery is possible."
After her treatment, the RAF assisted her in regaining fitness, enabling her to complete a half marathon in summer 2025 without extra training. This full marathon represents a new goal. "I'm determined to cross that finish line," Jess declared. "It's a celebration of my journey and a way to help other young people facing cancer."
This Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month, the Teenage Cancer Trust encourages better conversations about cancer, offering resources on their website for healthcare professionals, friends, and families.
