Henry's Haven

Henry's Journey

In April 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Henry began experiencing stomach pain, particularly after eating. He attended the local walk-in centre where he was told his symptoms were consistent with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). His eating patterns were monitored, and for a while his symptoms appeared to improve.

In July 2020, Henry suddenly looked noticeably unwell. Trusting instinct, he was taken to the Accident & Emergency department. Within a few hours, doctors explained that they believed the cause was likely to be cancer. Henry remained in hospital for a week while undergoing numerous investigations, including scans and a liver biopsy.

The diagnosis was Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma (FLC)↗, a rare form of primary liver cancer that typically affects young people with otherwise healthy livers. The news was devastating and came as a complete shock to everyone.

A treatment plan was developed collaboratively between the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, and overseen by specialists at the Royal Free Hospital in London.

Henry underwent intensive chemotherapy, receiving treatment continuously, 24 hours a day for three weeks. Alongside this, he received monthly immunotherapy and an intensive course of radiotherapy.

Despite everything he faced, Henry never lost his sense of humour. One of his lighter moments came during radiotherapy, when he joked that he had managed to get his first tattoo before turning 18—and before any of his friends—even if it was only two tiny treatment marker dots.

Treatment soon became part of everyday life, with regular journeys between the Norfolk and Norwich and Addenbrooke's. There were unexpected setbacks along the way, including a severe nosebleed that would not stop for days and resulted in another hospital admission. Reacting badly to dressings which we then had to source from abroad.

Almost exactly one year after his diagnosis, Henry suffered a stroke. It was an incredibly frightening time. He was admitted to the Norfolk and Norwich before being transferred by emergency ambulance to Addenbrooke's Hospital. True to character, Henry fought back with determination. Through intensive rehabilitation he worked tirelessly to regain his speech and strength and was eventually able to return home.

Sadly, by the time it was safe to restart his cancer treatment, the disease had progressed. On 10 January 2022, Henry came home where he was cared for by his family. He passed away peacefully, on Valentines Day, surrounded by love, with his mum and sister by his side.

Throughout his illness, Henry never gave up. Although he understood there was no cure for his cancer, he was always willing to try new treatments if they might help improve outcomes for future patients. He welcomed newly diagnosed patients, offering reassurance and helping them feel less alone as they began their own journey. His kindness, courage and humour never left him.

Henry was strong. He was resilient. He was a fighter.

His legacy continues to inspire others, reminding us that hope, compassion and courage can exist even in the most difficult circumstances.

No one fights alone.