Emma was initially diagnosed with inflamed sinuses and told she had no lung cancer risk factors

Having only been recently diagnosed, I'm still finding my way. I’ve realised that the love and support of others is so important to me

I’m Emma, 51, a celebrant, radio presenter and event host. I love my husband, my family, my handsome dog Billy the Beagle and my friends. Our dream is to live by the sea in Cornwall!

As a funeral celebrant I spend a lot of my time with grieving families and my job is so very rewarding.

I was diagnosed with lung cancer in April 2025. I was told it was stage 4 ALK+ a month later following a liquid biopsy test at The Royal Marsden organised by my lung nurse.

I’d been experiencing a persistent cough, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and generally felt unwell. On first contact with my GP surgery, the nurse dismissed concerns about lung cancer saying I didn't have any of the risk factors and diagnosed 'inflammation of my sinuses'.

I fully appreciate the fragility of life and even more so since my own diagnosis. Before becoming a celebrant I was a BBC radio presenter for 13 years and that really was a job like no other! I have lots of fond memories and did many fun things. Nowadays I’m a cover presenter for when people are on holiday so radio is like a hobby now! My husband and I have been together for 22 years but weren't married until recently - yes my diagnosis prompted that but it was such a special thing to do.

Having only been recently diagnosed, I'm still finding my way, however I have realised that the love and support of others is so important to me. I have become more aware of how your emotional outlook can have such a big effect on your immune system. As time goes on there are way more good days than not so good ones.

"I try to plan positive things in my diary to give me a focus." - Emma