Young cancer victim to carry Olympic torch (From Sutton Guardian)

Young cancer victim to carry Olympic torch

11:00am Sunday 22nd April 2012 in News By James Pepper

An 18-year-old fashion student who has overcome cancer will carry the Olympic torch this summer.

Chi-Mun Wong, who was diagnosed with thyroid cancer two years ago, was nominated for her bravery by her mother.

Despite being stricken with the disease, Miss Wong still managed to look after her terminally ill grandmother.

Miss Wong, who is studying for a degree in Fashion Promotion at the University of the Creative Arts (UCA), will run with the flame through Rochester on 20 July 2012.

The 18-year-old, from Cheam, said this summer will be a turning point in her life after a difficult couple of years.

She said: "I was just sat at home one day and I felt a lump in my neck. I decided to tell my mum, but I didn't think it would be a big deal."

But it was. And when scans showed the cancer, the family immediately decided to seek advice.

Miss Wong said: "The doctors put a needle into my neck, and then 10 minutes later they told me I had cancer. I didn't cry or anything, I think it was because I was in complete shock". The young fashionista, who had to give up her studies at AS Level due to her illness, said she is fine now, and is looking forward to the summer.

She said: "I'm slightly anxious about the actual run as there will be lots of people watching me on the day but thinking about how proud it will make my family will certainly get me through it."

"I hope that running with the Olympic flame will inspire other people to never give up when they are faced with difficulties or illness."

Miss Wong is hoping her fellow UCA students will cheer her on during her leg of the relay on Rochester High Street.

She added: "It would be great to have as many people from UCA come and support me. I will feel very proud to be representing UCA - I just hope I don’t trip or fall and make a fool of myself on the day."