A “TENACIOUS” Leicester teenager has donated over £7,700 to a local cancer charity, after fighting off a rare blood disease.
Kiya Kanani, 16, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma back in April 2021. With the help of chemotherapy, she has managed to fight off the disease, and has used her experience to raise funds for charity, as well as awareness of her condition.
Earlier this month, Kiya donated £7,741 to Hope Against Cancer, money which she raised through a period of dedicated fundraising efforts.
As well as raising funds for Hope Against Cancer, she has also raised money for three other cancer charities; Little Princess Trust, The Teenage Cancer Trust and Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia group.
A total of £32,000 has been raised in total.
“It was absolutely inspiring to hear about Kiya’s journey through cancer treatment,” said Nigel Rose, chief executive of Hope Against Cancer upon receiving his charity’s cheque.
“An obviously tenacious, determined and resourceful young person, I’m always moved when young people think about doing something to help others through their own situation.”
Hope Against Cancer, is a Leicestershire and Rutland’s local cancer research charity, which funds cutting-edge research in the area.
Since they were set up in 2003, they have funded over 60 research projects tackling many different forms of cancer.
Writing about her cancer journey on her social media, Kiya said: “I still can’t believe I was able to fight it and be able to put up with all the pain and tears.
“I am lucky to still be here, to spread awareness and to educate people.”
To find out more about her fundraising, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/kiya-15-just-diagnosed-with-hodgkins-lymphoma
