By V.E.K.Madhushani, Jadetimes News
Jersey Woman Supports Young Cancer Patients Worldwide
Antonia Rubio, a young woman from Jersey, has been making a significant impact on the lives of young cancer patients around the world. Diagnosed with thyroid cancer at 24 after falling ill in 2020, Rubio has shared her journey through treatments and its effects on social media, amassing over 18,000 followers on TikTok.
Rubio's efforts in raising awareness about cancer and supporting young patients globally have earned her a nomination for the Jersey Make a Difference Awards. She has connected with individuals in places like America and Australia, offering them hope and solidarity.
Molly Ralston, a young woman undergoing treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma in America, met Rubio through social media. Ralston described her journey as "a very long, difficult road” and credited Rubio’s posts with helping her feel less alone, especially as a young girl facing similar challenges. "Seeing someone else my age go through something very similar is very inspiring to me because it shows that if she can do it, I can do it as well," Ralston said. Currently in the hospital for a bone marrow transplant to complete her cancer treatment, Ralston finds strength in Rubio's story.
Having been in remission for over six months, Rubio collaborates with organizations like the Teenage Cancer Trust and CLIC Sargent to support other young cancer patients. Reflecting on her nomination, Rubio expressed her surprise and gratitude, recognizing it as a tribute to everyone who supported her during her journey. "I have people that I speak to every single day in Australia and America, and I have built a community of people battling cancer," she said. She emphasized the profound impact of her work, stating that knowing she has "potentially saved other people's lives just brings me joy."
Caron Rubio, Antonia’s mother, nominated her daughter for the Make a Difference Awards, expressing immense pride and inspiration drawn from Antonia's efforts. "She has made such a difference to thousands of people and she continues to do so," Caron said, adding, "I would not wish anyone to hear their daughter got cancer, and Antonia makes me proud every single day."
