Full Breakdown
Erin Lavery’s Campaign for NHS Fertility Support After Cancer
8/18/2026, 8:49:15 PM
Diagnosis, Treatment and Fertility Impact
Erin Lavery, a 23-year-old from Cambuslang near Glasgow, was diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin’s lymphoma in August 2024. She underwent six months of chemotherapy followed by a month of radiotherapy. While the treatment cured the cancer, medical specialists informed her that her fertility had been “heavily, heavily affected,” and that immediate egg preservation was required if she hoped to have children later.
Financial and Systemic Barriers to Egg Preservation
Because the NHS typically provides egg-freezing only when the procedure can be completed before cancer treatment begins, Lavery was ineligible for funded preservation after completing therapy. She now faces an estimated £8,000 cost for two cycles of fertility treatment, which she must fund herself. The expense represents a significant financial shock, especially after missing two years of work during her illness.
Official Response from the Scottish Government
Public Health Minister Maree Todd expressed admiration for Lavery’s resilience and thanked her for sharing her experience. Todd noted that clinical guidance already advises health boards to consider fertility preservation on a case-by-case basis, and that the Scottish government will shortly outline a review of fertility services in response to the campaign.
Campaign and Public Reaction
Lavery has used TikTok and other platforms to document her cancer journey, building a large online community. Her posts about the £8,000 fertility cost have drawn thousands of comments, many expressing disbelief that such a procedure is not covered by the NHS. She describes herself as “a bit lost” with the advocacy role but hopes her story will prompt policy change.
Verbatim Quote
- “It's been a massive shock and the stress that came with it has been huge.” — My Future Family Erin