Message of support from ex-footballer is 'so cool'

A schoolgirl who documented her cancer journey online said it was "so cool" to receive a message of support from a former England footballer.

Asha Patel, from Diss, Norfolk, posted a tearful video on social media as she pulled out clumps of her hair during chemotherapy treatment.

The 17-year-old, who is now free of stage four Hodgkin lymphoma cancer, said she was amazed the ex-West Ham defender Matthew Upson responded.

"He's probably the most famous person to have ever gone to my school," said Ms Patel, who now studies at Diss High School's sixth form.

Upson, 45, told the teenager in a video: "I'm a Diss town boy and former Diss High School pupil, and I heard about your recent struggles.

"I can only admire your strength in coming through them and I think it's incredible."

The retired footballer, who earned 21 England caps, said it was "great news" that Ms Patel was continuing her studies at the school.

Ms Patel said she shared her cancer journey in the hope it would help other people in similar circumstances.

"All my friends know who Matt is and they all think it's so cool that he would send me a personal message to wish me luck,” she said.

"It's amazing that, just because we have that school connection, he has reached out to support me.

“It means a great deal to me that someone so famous would get in touch, and it has really helped me get through a difficult time."

Hodgkin lymphoma is an uncommon cancer that develops in the white blood cells, part of the body's immune system.

Ms Patel was diagnosed in February this year after finding a small lump in her neck, which grew to the size of a golf ball.

After various tests, doctors confirmed she had tumours throughout her body, including her lung and spleen.

She was treated at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, including with chemotherapy.

Her father, Jayesh, said the successful treatment meant the family could enjoy "many more precious moments" with her.

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