Here we are introduced to 17 year old David, who, on the 26th July 2007 was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. As we hear David’s story, we find out what life was like before diagnosis- a typical teenage one really, going to school, hanging out with mates, going down the ‘chippy’- until a series of symptoms led to a far more serious turn of events. After finding out he had Leukemia, David explains what it was like to be told such shocking news, with his family also explaining how it emotionally affected them. Now in remission and receiving maintenance treatment ending in October 2010, as we join the family on a picnic, David explains how relieved he is to have been given the all clear and reveals how the whole experience has made him realise what is truly important in life.

After an intense course of treatment and now beginning to feel better, a holiday is long overdue for Jonny as he jets off to Spain and luckily, takes us with him! Leaving rainy England behind for the sparkling shores of Benalmadena near Malaga, the sun cream is packed, the shades are on and the sun is shining! We might not be experiencing the glorious weather like Jonny, but we get an envious insight into his jam packed holiday away and soon discover he’s been jetting off again- this time to France as part of a holiday organised by a wonderful charity Jonny spends a lot of time working for. Its third time lucky as Jonny has a relaxing break away with family in the Lake District and reflects on his experience with cancer, stating how it has made him a stronger and braver person despite the difficulties along the way.

Diagnosed in September 2006 with a brain tumour, this is Jonny’s story. 8 months on and we hear about his long and hard journey in detail, as Jonny explains the nasty side effects of treatment and the various operations he has had to have. We get a sneaky peek at the ever appearing and spooky looking radiotherapy mask, now only used at Halloween according to Jonny! Spending a lot of time at home after having to miss college, a vast array of daytime telly was on offer to Jonny, Loose Women and Jeremy Kyle being personal favourites of his. Friends and family play a big part in Jonny’s positivity, as he explains how lucky he feels to have such a supportive network of people around him. After talking about his treatment story, we get to see a rehearsal take place at the Youth Theatre where Jonny and his sister attend and by the sounds of things, he can certainly reach those sparkling top notes!

Home at last, Cherith talks about her excitement at being back in Belfast and reunited with some of her family. As she adapts to life away from her brother, Cherith also explains how she is feeling a mixture of emotions and is glad to be home and having a break from things, yet feels as though she should be with Jonathan back in Bristol. With an extensive amount of packing to do, Cherith shows us round her room, which, by the looks of things is housing a million different outfits all ready to be put in the suitcase! After a relaxing break at home and finally all packed, Cherith prepares to travel back to Bristol and looks forward to seeing Jonathan again, but not before she introduces us to her beloved dog Jess, although some how I don’t think she’ll be able to fit her in the case!

In this film we meet Jodie, whose brother Shawn was diagnosed with cancer only a month ago. As she goes about her sisterly duties, (i.e. fetching copious amounts of pot noodle from the shops!) Jodie explains how the news of Shawn’s diagnosis is still very raw but manages to keep going by keeping herself and Shawn motivated and providing him with everything he needs. Equipped with lots of helpful advice, Jodie also stresses the importance of positive thinking and staying strong, no matter what the situation. With the town centre only being a short walk from the hospital and Shawn needing regular nutrition in the form of McDonald’s milkshakes, Jodie explains how thankful she is for the convenience and also the fact that there’s a pub just around the corner!

In this truthful and informative film, as part of the Head Space series, former cancer patient Marina reminisces over the past few years and tells us about her experience with the illness and how it has changed her life, with work, family and friends being just some of the factors affected. Marina explains how her job as a chef, specialising in cake making and decorating, has been a comfort to her during hard times, never letting being ill stopping her from finishing that one last cake! We get a look at the scrummy cakes in question, as Marina shows us some of her personal favourites and proudly displays her Icing certificates. After finding out that she had a second tumour, we hear how difficult it was to take the news, when Marina explains how she felt as though her world had fallen apart as there were so many goals and dreams that hadn’t been achieved yet. She also tells us how worried she was when she feared her creative streak and passion for cakes may be subdued once treatment began and disruption set in. After showing us a masterpiece in progress i.e. Roary the racing car, Marina goes on to explain how this passion for her work and life has always been backed up by a strong support network, namely her religion, her family, friends and her spirituality.