My MRI Experience — and a Whole New Level of Respect for Maya

Suspected: Rotator cuff syndrome right shoulder

Twenty to twenty-five minutes inside that MRI machine felt like an eternity! The noise, the stillness, the claustrophobic tunnel — I completely understand now why people ask for calming tablets beforehand. And to think… I don’t even suffer from claustrophobia!

The friendly MRI team asked, “Have you had one before?”

“Yes,” I said — but what I really meant was, I’ve been to many, just never inside one. I’ve spent years sitting beside my daughter Maya, who’s been through countless MRIs in her 12 years of life, fighting childhood cancer (Neuroblastoma) for 8.5 years of them.

And wow… today I realised just how brave she truly is. Because when you’re actually in there — heart racing, clutching that little emergency pump — you just want to get out. Yet Maya has done this over and over, calm, strong, and smiling through it all.

Somewhere between the loud bangs and the endless beeps, I decided to close my eyes. I was so sleep-deprived from looking after Maya at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), I thought I might as well try to rest — and guess what? I fell asleep! The MRI team actually had to wake me up at the end!

But all jokes aside, this experience has given me a whole new level of admiration for my girl. Maya’s courage shines brighter than ever. 🌟

“Bravery isn’t the absence of fear — it’s facing it over and over, and still choosing to fight.”

Maya — my warrior, my hero, my heartbeat. 💓

Today (Sunday 9th November), Maya needed a platelet transfusion as her levels dropped to 24 (normal range: 150–450×10⁹/L).

Grateful beyond words to the selfless blood and platelet donors who give the gift of life.

Your kindness keeps our brave girl fighting — you truly are real-life superheroes. ❤️🩸

Thank you to everyone who tries to catch up with Maya’s updates and do those who generously donated, we really appreciate your kindness. We may not be able to pay back, but we always pay kindness forward. 💕