A 20-year-old student from Kinross, Scotland, has defied the odds after battling a rare form of brain cancer. Joscelyne Kerr was diagnosed with anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (APXA), becoming the first recorded case of the disease in Scotland in 2023. Initially fearing she might not live to see another Christmas, Joscelyne has recently received encouraging news regarding her health.
At just 18, Joscelyne underwent a high-risk surgery, followed by extensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy throughout 2024. Unfortunately, these treatments did not yield the desired results. In a turn of events, she began participating in a clinical trial for experimental drugs that showed promising outcomes. Remarkably, the trial resulted in the elimination of her tumor, bringing Joscelyne a renewed sense of hope.
Raising Awareness for Brain Tumour Research
Now, Joscelyne is committed to raising awareness for the Brain Tumour Research Christmas Appeal, which aims to fund innovative research into brain tumors. She expressed her disbelief at the positive developments in her health, stating, “It was such an unbelievable thing to hear as we never expected the crystallised core of Pedro to be dissolved by the drugs.”
Despite the joy of her progress, Joscelyne remains cautious. A recent scan revealed a small spot that could signify a new tumor or a stressed nerve. Nevertheless, she chooses to focus on the present. “My outlook on life wants me to believe it’s just an anomaly,” she explained. Her determination to live fully has led her to continue her studies in astrophysics at the University of Edinburgh.
Joscelyne’s family support plays a crucial role in her resilience. “I have a truly strong and amazing backbone of family and friends to keep me standing,” she noted. As Christmas approaches, she looks forward to celebrating with loved ones, underscoring the importance of being surrounded by family during this festive season.
Celebrating Resilience and Community Support
Reflecting on the upcoming holiday, Joscelyne shared her excitement for traditional family activities. “Sometimes people want to make everything extra special, thinking it might be my last, but they can’t get rid of me that easily!” she said with a smile. Last year, she enjoyed a memorable Christmas in New Zealand with her uncle and cousins. This year, she anticipates a return to her family’s cherished Christmas routine, which includes gingerbread competitions and long walks with their dog.
In her advocacy for Brain Tumour Research, Joscelyne aims to raise funds and awareness for those affected by this devastating illness. She emphasized the harsh reality that brain tumors can impact individuals of any age and are responsible for more deaths in people under 40 than any other cancer. Alarmingly, only one percent of national cancer research funding has been allocated to brain tumors since 2002.
Joscelyne’s story is one of courage, resilience, and hope. As she prepares for another Christmas, she remains determined to make a difference and lend her voice to a cause that affects so many. “If I can make a difference and raise awareness for everyone out there who deserves to be heard and seen, then I feel honoured to be one of the faces for the charity’s Christmas appeal,” she concluded.
