My Life Now - meet domestic abuse support worker Emily

It’s been 19 years since the Trust first set sail – what are the young people who have been on trips up to now? Our 'My Life Now' series shows a positive future after cancer is a reality. Through the support of the Trust Emily was able to believe in herself again.

Name: Emily Page

Age: 23

Diagnosis/year: Multiple relapse Hodgkin lymphoma from 2015-2019

When did you first sail with the Trust? From the Isle of Wight in June 2018

What you do now? I work for a non-profit called Next Link which is a domestic abuse support service.

Explain what that means? I support people who have reached out to Next Link by facilitating access to safe housing, outreach services and emotional support along with many other things.

Why did you do want to do this? My passion for supporting people affected by domestic abuse started during my time at university as a psychology and criminology student. Along with this, my experience of receiving cancer treatment and meeting nurses and social workers showed me just how rewarding helping others can be.

What's the coolest thing you've done lately? I think graduating with a first-class degree despite my cancer relapsing in the middle of my course is really cool and something I never thought I would achieve. I just hope we will be able to have a graduation ceremony soon. I also recently became a Graduate Volunteer for the Trust which is really exciting.

Why did you need the Trust's support in recovery? My diagnosis affected my confidence a lot and my Teenage Cancer Trust support worker got me in contact with the Trust. I had such a great time, and it gave me the opportunity to build my confidence, learn new skills and meet people who understood what I was going through.

What part has the Trust played in you doing what you are now? I think the Trust made me realise that I was capable of more than I thought, which helped me to believe in myself more when applying for jobs. The Trust also gave me a lovely reference which was great!

What's your top tip for a young person interested in working in your industry? I would say that finding ways to build your confidence, such as going on Trust trips is a great first step. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself whether you’re in education or looking for jobs, you will get there even if it takes time and a bit of extra help like it did for me.