Cork Mother Begins Life-Saving T-Cell Therapy in Cancer Battle

A mother from Cork, Aisling Thornhill, has embarked on a crucial new treatment in her battle against acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Her family announced that she began T-cell therapy in Dublin, marking a significant step in her fight against the aggressive cancer after a major fundraising campaign that has raised over €40,000. This therapy is particularly beneficial for patients with hard-to-treat forms of the disease, as it involves modifying a type of white blood cell to better target and attack cancer cells.

Aisling’s journey has been challenging. Recently, she faced a third relapse of her illness, intensifying the urgency for effective treatment. Her family revealed that Aisling has endured a difficult eight months filled with various treatments, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. They described her as a “warrior,” emphasizing her strength and resilience throughout this arduous process.

The timing of this treatment is pivotal for Aisling, who will return to Dublin in four weeks to continue her therapy. The approval for T-cell therapy came from the Minister for Health just last week, a moment her family described as a answered prayer. They expressed gratitude for the community’s support, which has been instrumental in facilitating this treatment option.

Support from the Community Fuels Aisling’s Fight

Aisling’s family, particularly her cousins Deborah and Elaine Cooney, have been at the forefront of raising funds through a GoFundMe campaign. They announced the successful approval of Aisling’s treatment during a live update, urging the public to continue their support. “All our prayers have been answered today,” they stated. The awareness and financial backing from the community have been significant, with numerous fundraising events organized to assist with Aisling’s medical expenses and to support her two young children, Ajay and Jorja.

The family’s efforts have included various initiatives, from raffles to fishing competitions, each contributing to the financial support for Aisling’s treatment. As she continues her fight, her primary goal remains to receive a bone marrow transplant, which is contingent upon stabilizing her cancer.

Ongoing Challenges and Determination

Aisling’s symptoms first emerged in late 2024, with her diagnosis confirmed in January. Since then, she has faced numerous hospital visits, spending considerable time in Cork University Hospital (CUH) for treatment. Despite her health challenges, Aisling has managed to enjoy moments with her children and loved ones, including a memorable wedding dress shopping trip.

As she undergoes T-cell therapy, Aisling and her family remain hopeful that this new treatment will significantly impact her health. The support from the community has been a beacon of hope during this challenging time, underscoring the power of collective action in the face of adversity. The family continues to encourage donations through their campaign, emphasizing that every contribution helps ease the burden of medical bills and provides care for her children during this trying period.