The Aplastic Anaemia Trust

Louise's page

Louise Arnold

Louise Arnold

My Story

25 Years in Haematology – and a New Challenge Ahead

In 2000, I began my nursing career in haematology, working with people diagnosed with aplastic anaemia and paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH). My first role was at St George’s Hospital in London, alongside the brilliant team led by Professor Ted Gordon-Smith. From day one, I was immersed in the world of bone marrow failure — a world that has become both my professional focus and personal passion.

Now, 25 years later, I’m proud to work as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) in the aplastic anaemia and PNH service at St James's Hospital in Leeds. These conditions remain incredibly close to my heart. If you’d told the newly-qualified nurse I was back then that I’d one day be working in a national specialist service — with the understanding, treatments, and research we now have — I wouldn't have believed it. So much has changed in two and a half decades, thanks to the tireless efforts of researchers, nurses, clinicians, patients, families, and supporters in this amazing community.

As I reflected on how to mark 25 years in this field, I knew I wanted to do something meaningful. For so many of the people I’ve cared for, everything changes in an instant with a diagnosis. I wanted to honour that — to step out of my own comfort zone and take on a challenge in solidarity.

So, in nine weeks, I’ll be running the Great North Run. From non-runner to (hopefully!) finish-line crosser, this will be a serious test — physically and mentally. But it feels like the right way to celebrate this milestone and give something back.

My first-ever fundraising event for The Aplastic Anaemia Trust was the London to Paris triathlon — an unforgettable experience. Since then, I’ve met so many extraordinary people living with aplastic anaemia and PNH. More recently, serious illness has also touched my personal life, giving me a renewed sense of empathy and deeper connection in my work.

Let’s make some noise. Let’s shine a light on these rare conditions. Let’s keep raising awareness, supporting research, and improving outcomes for everyone affected.

I’ll need your support — because, believe me, I am no runner — but I’m doing this for a reason that means everything to me.

See you on the other side.

The Aplastic Anaemia Trust

Raising for:

The Aplastic Anaemia Trust
146%

Funded

  • Target
    £1,111
  • Raised so far
    £1,626
  • Number of donors
    71

My Story

25 Years in Haematology – and a New Challenge Ahead

In 2000, I began my nursing career in haematology, working with people diagnosed with aplastic anaemia and paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH). My first role was at St George’s Hospital in London, alongside the brilliant team led by Professor Ted Gordon-Smith. From day one, I was immersed in the world of bone marrow failure — a world that has become both my professional focus and personal passion.

Now, 25 years later, I’m proud to work as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) in the aplastic anaemia and PNH service at St James's Hospital in Leeds. These conditions remain incredibly close to my heart. If you’d told the newly-qualified nurse I was back then that I’d one day be working in a national specialist service — with the understanding, treatments, and research we now have — I wouldn't have believed it. So much has changed in two and a half decades, thanks to the tireless efforts of researchers, nurses, clinicians, patients, families, and supporters in this amazing community.

As I reflected on how to mark 25 years in this field, I knew I wanted to do something meaningful. For so many of the people I’ve cared for, everything changes in an instant with a diagnosis. I wanted to honour that — to step out of my own comfort zone and take on a challenge in solidarity.

So, in nine weeks, I’ll be running the Great North Run. From non-runner to (hopefully!) finish-line crosser, this will be a serious test — physically and mentally. But it feels like the right way to celebrate this milestone and give something back.

My first-ever fundraising event for The Aplastic Anaemia Trust was the London to Paris triathlon — an unforgettable experience. Since then, I’ve met so many extraordinary people living with aplastic anaemia and PNH. More recently, serious illness has also touched my personal life, giving me a renewed sense of empathy and deeper connection in my work.

Let’s make some noise. Let’s shine a light on these rare conditions. Let’s keep raising awareness, supporting research, and improving outcomes for everyone affected.

I’ll need your support — because, believe me, I am no runner — but I’m doing this for a reason that means everything to me.

See you on the other side.