Amy on Ice

Before she was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour, Amy Howarth was passionate about ice skating.

“I loved to skate, I enjoyed it so much,” said 20-year-old Amy, whose world was crushed last year when she was diagnosed with a rare and very aggressive type of brain tumour. In April 2013, Amy was given just six months to live. She is also on a strong daily dose of medication which zaps her energy, leaving her feeling drained. She struggles to walk and the medication also meant Amy put on weight, going from a size 10 to a size 28 within months.

But this week Amy was able to get back on to the ice thanks to a special trip arranged by us and the National Ice Centre and Capital FM Arena Nottingham. She hasn’t skated since three months before her diagnosis.

Amy was pushed around the ice in her wheel chair and, along with her family and friends, she was entertained by a special ice dance show from Slovakian solo skater Alexandra Kunova.

Since her diagnosis, Amy has been cared for regularly at Rainbows, a place she says has given her independence back. “Rainbows is my lifeline,” said Amy. “Going there gives me my independence back which is so important to me. Rainbows is my world. I can’t believe they have arranged for me to get to ice skate again, it is unbelievable and it has made me so happy. It was just amazing. I did spins and all sorts. It was brilliant.”

Amy suffers from Glyoblastoma Multiform Wildtype Grade 4. The tumour is attached to her spinal cord and major nerves meaning it is inoperable she considers every day to be a blessing.

Lizzie Wright, a family support nurse at Rainbows, said: “To think that all  that Amy is going through and she still wants to lead the way for others who might be in the same position, is amazing. She is very positive and inspirational. We are delighted that we could work with the National Ice Centre and Capital FM Arena to provide this treat for Amy and we are so glad she enjoyed it.”

Ruth Terry, Deputy Marketing Manager at the National Ice Centre and Capital FM Arena Nottingham said: “When we heard about Amy’s condition coupled with her love for skating and her positive attitude, we wanted to do something special for her. We’re thrilled that giving Amy some private ice time with her friends and family made her feel happy and put a huge smile on her face.”