What began as suspected cold symptoms in a four-month-old baby escalated into a life-threatening cancer diagnosis and a months-long hospital battle that continues to this day.
From Common Cold to Cancer Diagnosis
Rachel-Elizabeth Hewitt and Kevin Aggett became concerned about their daughter Melody in April 2025 when what appeared to be a common cold began seriously affecting her breathing. The situation deteriorated to the point where Melody could no longer breastfeed properly, and when her nappy remained dry for an entire day, her parents rushed her to their local hospital in Poole, Dorset.
"The first consultant thought it was bronchiolitis, which can cause breathing problems," Rachel recalled. "They wanted to send Melody home." Fortunately, another consultant decided to keep Melody in overnight and fitted her with a nasogastric tube. The following day, a different doctor ordered a blood gas test that would change everything.
Within minutes of the test, medical staff conducted further blood tests, and just one hour later, Rachel and Kevin received the devastating news: their baby daughter was battling acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a high-risk cancer.
"It didn't feel real," Rachel said. "I was so shocked, I had to ask the consultant to repeat her words. Hearing those words was like a stabbing pain in my heart."
Months of Intensive Treatment
Melody received a platelet transfusion immediately before being transferred to a paediatric intensive care unit in Southampton. She would spend 30 days there, including two weeks on a ventilator and undergoing two rounds of chemotherapy.
According to Cancer Support UK, this rare form of leukaemia affects approximately 100 children and young adults each year across the United Kingdom. Despite the aggressive treatment, Rachel found comfort in being able to resume breastfeeding her daughter during this challenging period.
In August, Melody's condition necessitated an urgent transfer to Great Ormond Street Hospital for a bone marrow transplant. Throughout her ordeal, her parents have been amazed by her resilience.
"We do as much as possible with Melody – playing with her and giving lots of cuddles and love," Rachel shared. "She's an inspiration, because she's smiled and giggled throughout, whereas I have cried continuously. She's such a fighter, even when feeling poorly."
Family Life Amid Hospital Stays
Rachel and Kevin have faced the enormous challenge of balancing work and family life while supporting Melody through her treatment. They have four other children to care for: Felicity, two, Liberty, six, and ten-year-old twins Tom and Iz.
The family is currently using charity accommodation near Great Ormond Street Hospital, which allows them to bring their other children to spend precious time with Melody. They're sharing their story to support Cancer Support UK's initiative to send 1,200 bears to children battling cancer in hospitals and hospices this Christmas.
Melody has already received her comforting bear, which has brought smiles during her ongoing medical battle. "This warmable bear is wonderfully comforting and brings a smile to Melody's face," Rachel said. "It's the perfect size for her and we are so grateful to everyone who donated and ensured Melody received her cute ted. It's been a godsend at this difficult time."
