Brave Oxford girl climbs Mount Snowdon for blood cancer

Eight-year-old Eden Pink, from Oxford, is taking on the challenge to raise money for Anthony Nolan, a charity that helps find stem cell donors for patients who need transplants.

Eden’s inspiration comes from her aunt, Michelle Williams, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in 2024 and spent a year in hospital.

Ms Williams said: “When chemotherapy wasn’t working, my only chance of survival was a stem cell transplant. My siblings weren’t a match, so doctors had to search the stem cell register.”

Eden Pink and Michelle Williams (Image: Michelle Williams)

Thanks to Anthony Nolan, an anonymous donor was found, and she received a life-saving transplant in February 2025. Ms Williams said: “Without that donor, and without Anthony Nolan, I simply wouldn’t be here today.”

Michelle Williams in hospital (Image: Michelle Williams)

Eden, who was just seven when her aunt was diagnosed, wanted to help others in similar situations. Ms Williams said: “She said she wanted to make a difference so more people could get a second chance, just like I did. I’m so proud of her. Climbing Snowdon is tough for adults – let alone an 8-year-old.”

Eden has already raised more than £1,800 and hopes to reach at least £2,000. The money will support Anthony Nolan’s work to recruit and match stem cell donors with people in need.

Ms Williams said: “Most people don’t realise how simple it is to join, and how life-saving it can be. One person’s kindness can be the reason someone else gets to live.”