“This Chapter Changed Me - But the Story Isn’t Over”: Evie’s Powerful Journey Through Cancer, Courage and Creativity

Evie Skillicorn is the definition of strength. Her story is one of unimaginable strength, unshakable spirit and deep-rooted hope. Diagnosed with cancer at just 19, in the middle of chasing her dream on stage, she faced every moment with bravery beyond her years. She’s a reminder that even in life’s hardest seasons, there is still light, love and fierce determination. We are so proud to share her words with our community, and to cheer her on as she steps into this next chapter. Evie, you are extraordinary.

At the beginning of this year, my life took a turn I never saw coming. In January I was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkins Lymphoma, words that changed everything for me in an instant. I was just 19, taking a year out before applying and auditioning for drama school, dreaming of the next chapter in my life on stage.

I’ve been involved in theatre, singing, and dancing since I was six years old. Performing has

always been my passion, the place where I feel most alive, most myself. So when I landed the

role of Roxie Hart in Chicago, it felt like everything I had worked for was coming together. But life had other plans.

I was right in the middle of rehearsals for Chicago when I was diagnosed. One moment I was

learning choreography, the next I was being sent for tests, scans, and appointments. It was

overwhelming, surreal even. But despite my treatment being fairly urgent, my consultant agreed that I could wait just two more weeks before I started, just long enough for me to perform in the show.

So, I gave those final rehearsals and performances everything I had, knowing it might be a while before I felt that free again, and two days after the show finished , I began treatment.

And that’s when the real battle began.

I was put on a chemotherapy regiment called Escalated BEACOPP, one of the strongest

treatments used for Hodgkins lymphoma. The side effects were intense. I felt sick, exhausted, and almost detached from the person I once was. Some days I didn’t recognise myself at all. I couldn’t go out and have fun with my friends and everything I associated with who I was, seemed to fade.

One of the hardest things for me was losing my hair. People often think it’s just about looks, but it’s so much more than that. It’s about identity. Femininity and normalcy. I found myself pulling out handfuls of hair in the shower, looking in the mirror and not recognising the girl staring back.

It was devastating. I decided to shave the remaining hair myself, it was almost like the last bit of control I had.

Hodgkins lymphoma is considered one of the more treatable cancers, especially in younger

people, but that doesn’t mean it’s rare or easy. Around 1,900 young people aged 15–24 are

diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK, and Hodgkins lymphoma is one of the most

common cancers in this age group. While survival rates are high (more than 90% for early-stage Hodgkins lymphoma), the treatment is still extremely tough and the physical and emotional impact is real. Being part of those numbers suddenly made me realise how many others are walking this road, too and how important it is to talk about it. I managed to reach out to lots of other young people with the same or a similar diagnosis as me on social media. I found this extremely helpful as I was then able to compare symptoms and side effects with people who knew exactly how I was feeling.

As well as this I had the amazing support of my nurse, Emma, who was just incredible. From

day one, she made me feel safe, heard, and understood. She explained what to expect when I was overwhelmed, and calmed my fears when I was anxious. She fought my corner when I couldn’t find the words. She was more than a nurse, she was a lifeline. I’ll never forget how much she did for me, and how much she cared.

And she wasn’t the only one. The entire team of doctors and nurses in the oncology and

haematology departments were nothing short of amazing. They treated me with empathy,

patience, and respect. They reminded me that underneath the illness, I was still me.

And just as importantly, I had the constant, unwavering support of my family and closest friends.

They were my strength when I didn’t have any left. Whether it was sitting with me through

chemo, holding my hand during difficult conversations, making me laugh on my darkest days, or simply reminding me who I was, their love carried me through. I will never be able to fully express how much their presence meant, they were my reason to keep going.

Eventually, I reached the end of treatment. But recovery is complicated, it’s not just about

getting your body back, it’s about rebuilding your life, your strength, and your confidence.

Cancer took so much from me, but it also gave me a new perspective on life. The things I used to worry about feel so small now. I suppose I’ve faced the unthinkable and come through it.

Now, I’m focusing on healing and rebuilding myself from the inside out. I’ve started setting small goals: going for walks, slowly building up my stamina, listening to my body while also

challenging it in gentle ways. I’ve been journaling, reflecting, and surrounding myself with

people who lift me up. I’m learning to nourish my body again and to trust it, even when it feels different.

I know there’s no rushing this part. Strength doesn’t come back overnight, but every day I see glimpses of the person I want to be, a new stronger version of the old me. I want to come back to the stage soon too, hopefully this will not be too far away. My goal next is to begin drama school applications and auditions again and I’m determined to do it when I’m ready, hopefully next year. And when I do, I’ll be carrying everything this journey has taught me, not as baggage, but as fuel.

I want to try and become the best version of myself. Stronger and braver, more compassionate and grounded. Someone who doesn’t take life for granted, who doesn’t sweat the small stuff, and who lifts others up because she knows how hard the lows can be.

This experience didn’t just interrupt my life it redefined it. But I’m choosing to let it empower me, not limit me.

I’m not the same person I was before this year. I’ve been broken and rebuilt. I’ve cried and

fought. I’ve discovered strength I didn’t know I had. I’ve faced fear, pain, and loss but I’ve also found hope, love, and a deeper understanding of who I am.

This chapter has changed me but the story isn’t over.

In fact, it’s only just beginning.

Evie, your words moved us beyond measure. Your courage, your vulnerability, and your resilience are nothing short of extraordinary. Thank you for sharing your truth so bravely and beautifully. We cannot wait to see you back on stage, chasing your dreams and we'll be cheering you on in this next chapter. and always!