Watch: ‘When The Doctor Told Me I Had Cancer, I Laughed’ – Maltese Survivor Kristen Shares Her Life-Changing Experience
Kristen Aquilina was just 18 years old when she received the news that would change her life forever. Her diagnosis of cancer plunged her into a world of uncertainty and turmoil, where hospitals, doctors, and treatments became a constant in her life.
At first, Kristen thought she could search Google for information about her condition, but her doctor would soon provide her with a different diagnosis.
“When the doctor told me I had cancer, I laughed”
Kristen Aquilina recounts her initial reaction to the life-changing news.
“He said that every lump was cancer,” she recalls.
Her journey with cancer was difficult and traumatic, but she found support in the form of Puttinu Cares. The organisation helped fund her treatment and made it possible for her to travel to England for further care. She remains grateful for the support that Puttinu Cares provided during this difficult time.
The illness left her struggling to speak, but with the help of physiotherapists and speech therapists, she regained her ability to communicate.
Sadly, the tumour grew again because she was unable to receive radiation, and Kristen needed to return to England. The support of her family was crucial during this time, and she realized how much they mattered in her life.
You can watch Kristen’s story below, which is part of a campaign by SideStreet and Lovin Malta to raise funds for Puttinu.
Puttinu Cares provided Kristen with things she needed, from a place to stay in London to emotional support. They treated her like family, and Kristen is forever grateful for the help they provided during her darkest moments.
Now, Kristen is studying nursing at the University of Malta, and her experience with cancer has given her a new perspective on life. She is more focused and sees the world with a clearer mind. Kristen’s journey with cancer was difficult, but with the support of her family and organisations like Puttinu Cares, she was able to overcome it and become the person she is today.
If you want to make a difference in patients’ lives and help Puttinu here’s how you can do it:
For individuals and smaller organisations who are also keen to help, please visit https://puttinucares.org/your-donation, call the Puttinu Cares donation lines, send a donation by text or bank transfer to
Donation Lines:
5160 2007 – Eur10
5170 2006 – Eur15
5180 2008 – Eur25
5190 2062 – Eur50
SMS Donations:
5061 6499 – Eur1.16
5061 7380 – Eur2.33
5061 8939 – Eur6.99
5061 9225 – Eur11.65
HSBC Bank Transfer
Account number: 089077341001
IBAN: MT55MMEB44897000000089077341001
Swift Code: MMEBMTMT
Cheques can be made payable to Puttinu Cares
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