Elizabeth’s Story

At 87 years old, Elizabeth Brown is living proof that age should never be a barrier to treatment or to helping others.

Diagnosed with chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML) in early 2023, Elizabeth’s path to diagnosis was far from straightforward. In fact, her symptoms began three years earlier, but it wasn’t until she saw a new GP that she finally received clarity. “It was only then that I was told I had CMML,” Elizabeth recalls.

Following her diagnosis, she was referred to Cardiff Hospital, where she met her consultant, Professor Steve Knapper. What followed was a series of tests and regular blood transfusions.

In March 2024, Elizabeth became the 73^rd, and final patient to join a cutting-edge clinical study, the AMMO trial, led by Dr Dan Wiseman. Elizabeth was told she was the oldest person to be recruited to this trial – something that didn’t deter her in the slightest.

The AMMO clinical trial is investigating a new approach to treating CMML, a rare type of leukaemia that affects the bone marrow and blood. Traditional treatments often involve blood transfusions and supportive care, especially in older patients. The AMMO trial explores whether a new oral treatment (taken in tablet form) can reduce the need for transfusions, improve quality of life, and help control the disease with fewer side effects.

The AMMO trial is part of the Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP), a national network of specialist clinical centres designed to rapidly open and deliver pioneering blood cancer trials. The TAP network ensures equal access to innovative treatments regardless of a patient’s postcode. The AMMO trial has been one of the highest-recruiting studies within this network, reflecting both its clinical importance and the dedication of patients like Elizabeth who are helping to advance the future of leukaemia treatment.

“If this trial can help another person, I will trial it for them,” she says.

Elizabeth now takes one tablet for three days each month, and visits the Cardiff trial centre once a month. She speaks highly of the experience, noting the “close monitoring” and “immense support” she receives from the clinical team.

Before joining the trial, Elizabeth required regular blood transfusions. Today, over a year later, she hasn’t needed a single one, and continues to enjoy a full and active life.