Harriet’s update: welcoming a miracle four years after a stage 4 ALK+ lung cancer diagnosis

Harriet first shared her story with us in 2025. She was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK+ lung cancer in 2022, at 33, and her only symptoms were fatigue and migraines. Early on, her oncologist told her to let him worry about the cancer while she got on with living her life, and she’s held on to that ever since.

“When I was diagnosed with stage 4 ALK-positive lung cancer in 2022, the future looked very different from the life I’m living today.”

More than four years later, Harriet is still working and still on her first targeted treatment, alectinib, now at a lower dose to help with side effects. And this year, she had the best news of all.

“Life gave me the most extraordinary gift: I became a mum to my beautiful daughter.”

Becoming a mum while living with cancer hasn’t always been easy, and Harriet is honest that there have been challenges and moments of uncertainty along the way. But it’s also brought her more love and happiness than she can put into words.

“My story is a reminder that a cancer diagnosis does not mean life stops. There can still be milestones to celebrate, dreams to pursue, adventures to have and beautiful new beginnings to look forward to.”

Harriet believes cancer and little miracles can exist side by side, and that a diagnosis can change your life without taking away your hope. She has a message for anyone else living with ALK+ lung cancer.

“To anyone living with ALK-positive lung cancer today: I hope my story reminds you that there is room for hope, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. Every journey is different, and I never take mine for granted. But I want you to know that life can still surprise you in the most beautiful ways.”

When she was diagnosed at 33, Harriet couldn’t have pictured this. Four years on, she’s a mum.