Yasmin's Story

"You kind of know what the other is thinking because you know what you have both gone through."

Yasmin sitting at the helm of the yacht while docked in a marina, smiling at the camera

I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in my thigh. I was diagnosed when I was nine, I had one week where my family could visit in hospital before COVID.

I didn't have the same experience as others, where family could come and see them. I would look at them through the window outside. I was in a wheelchair for quite some time too, so I had to build up my mobility to be able to walk again.

Support the Trust

Yasmin sitting with her crew on deck of the yacht, all smiling at the camera, with some people holding colourful arm puppets

Matching scars

But now it's quite cool! My hip to my knee is all titanium inside. I'm back doing the things I love.

Someone else on the yacht had the exact same cancer in the exact same place, and we have matching scars. We're able to discuss things, we've been through the same experiences. You kind of know what the other is thinking because you know what you have both gone through.

Find out about the trips

Yasmin sitting with one of her crewmates in early evening summer light on the deck of the yacht smiling at the camera

It's nice knowing that we've been to similar hospitals and had the same experiences. You feel relieved knowing there are people out there who have been through the same stuff. You take all the memories of sailing and cooking on the boat back home with you, but all the friends and all the discussions you've had together too.

Feeling inspired or want to help others like Yasmin?

If you, or someone you know, could benefit from Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust support, or you want to make a difference to young lives after cancer, here's how you can...

Find out about the trips Support the Trust