The Parkhall mum has been in remission for around two years and this week tells how her life has completely turned around since she was photographed gravely ill on a hospital bed.

Katy has been helped through the lingering affects of the infections she contracted at her lowest point by her husband of 33 years, Alasdair, who has cared for her throughout her illness.

Brave Katy recently returned to her hobby of dog agility training and has taken on a part time job.

And, despite a once bleak outlook, Katy insists it’s vitally important for people to maintain hope in the face of hardship.

She said: “We always had the hope I would get better and probably at times when you do lose that hope you try and keep it to yourself rather than show it as that will bring other people down with you.

“If I said I was positive all the time that wouldn’t be true. At times there was very black moments when you feel so ill you couldn’t see the next step ahead but you come back and get something that keeps you going, whether it’s your family carrying you on, you just keep going because that’s the only option you have.” Katy is also keen to raise awareness about lymphoma — a cancer affecting the lymphatic system — ahead of Lymphatic Cancer Awareness Week which starts next Monday.

The most common symptom of lymphoma is a painless lump or swelling, often in the neck, armpit or groin although other symptoms can include feeling worn out for no reason, unexplained weight loss and excessive sweating, especially at night.

After finding lumps in her neck and Katy was diagnosed with lymphoma in March 2010, the day after her 50th birthday.

Her condition was monitored by health professionals until she took a turn for the worse around August the next year.

Months of treatment followed and, in February 2012, Katy was given a stem cell transplant which would ultimately put her on a long road to recovery.

However, as her immune system was in a weakened state, she contracted a number of infections and which left her completely fatigued and requiring nearly a year of recuperation at home aided by her family.

However, Katy is now moving on with her life and is thankful to those closest to her who helped her along the way.

She added: “I was very fortunate in that I had a very positive and supportive husband and family round about me. It’s difficult to maintain a positive attitude but that’s what you have got to try and do.” If you have been affected by lymphoma and want help or more information, please visit www.lymphomas.org.uk or call 0808 808 5555.