Brief

Norfolk baby’s mother urges stem‑cell donors after AML diagnosis

Mary, a paramedic, asks the public to join the Anthony Nolan register to help her 10‑month‑old son Reuben, diagnosed with AML.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 30 Sep 2026 07:34:12 GMT

Mary, a paramedic from Norfolk, has launched an urgent appeal for stem‑cell donors for her 10‑month‑old son Reuben, who was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) after initial symptoms were mistaken for teething and tonsillitis.

Reuben, nicknamed Roo, was taken to a GP who suspected tonsillitis; subsequent tests led to a hospital referral where blood work confirmed AML. He has been treated at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge and now requires a stem‑cell transplant to avoid cancer returning after chemotherapy.

Mary said the diagnosis “blindsided” the family and that their world “fell apart overnight.” She explained that Reuben’s sisters, Lyra (8) and Cleo (4), are being tested for a match, and she fears the waiting period for a suitable donor.

Charlotte Cunliffe, director of register development at Anthony Nolan, described the case as “heartbreaking” and noted that blood cancer is the most common cancer among children, teenagers and young adults in the UK.

The family is urging young people to join the Anthony Nolan stem‑cell register to increase the chances of finding a match for Reuben and other children in similar situations.

Key facts

Reuben, a 10‑month‑old from Norfolk, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia after initial symptoms were thought to be teething and tonsillitis. (standard.co.uk)
He is being treated at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge and needs a stem‑cell transplant. (standard.co.uk)
His mother Mary, a paramedic, is appealing for donors through the Anthony Nolan charity. (standard.co.uk)
Charlotte Cunliffe of Anthony Nolan called the case heartbreaking and highlighted that blood cancer is the most common cancer among young people in the UK. (standard.co.uk)