Finding comfort in community: Badriya’s treatment journey with Pharmaxo Healthcare
When Badriya Alabbad was diagnosed with advanced gastro-oesophageal cancer in late 2025, life changed in an instant.
A physiotherapy lecturer at Keele University, wife and mum to two children aged 17 and five, the 46-year-old had always led a busy life. Looking back, the signs were subtle – occasional reflux and difficulty swallowing – symptoms that were easy to dismiss amongst the demands of work and family life.
“I didn’t have the symptoms people often associate with cancer,” Badriya explains. “I thought I was just tired because I was working full time and raising a family.”
Following further investigations at Royal Stoke University Hospital, Badriya began chemotherapy and immunotherapy just before Christmas 2025. While chemotherapy brought challenging side effects, recent scans have shown a significant reduction in her tumour, and she continues immunotherapy every three weeks as part of her ongoing treatment plan.
Strength through family and faith
Throughout her journey, she says the unwavering support of her family has made all the difference.
“My husband, my children, my friends and my mum have all been amazing. My mum came to stay with me for six months, and having that love and support has kept me going. My faith has also been incredibly important. Even on the difficult days, they’ve helped me stay positive.”
A new option for treatment closer to home
Several months into treatment, Badriya was offered the opportunity to receive her immunotherapy closer to home at the Pharmaxo Healthcare clinic at Audley Health Centre near Stoke on Trent, delivered in partnership with Royal Stoke University Hospital.
Initially, she wasn’t convinced.
“The hospital is only about 10 minutes from where I live, whereas the clinic suggested to me is around 20 to 25 minutes away. I remember thinking, ‘That’s quite a drive,’ especially as my husband takes time off work to bring me.”
Like many patients, she was hesitant about moving away from the hospital team she had come to know and trust.
However, from the moment she arrived at the Pharmaxo Healthcare clinic, her concerns quickly disappeared.
“The atmosphere was so friendly from the minute I walked in. There was hardly any waiting, everyone introduced themselves, they offered me a drink and immediately made me feel welcome.”
It felt much more personal. I no longer felt like I was just a patient. The clinic space was calm, intimate and there was such positive energy. The nurses weren’t rushing from one emergency to another like they understandably have to in a busy hospital. It felt like they had the time to really listen.
Care that feels personal
For Badriya, it wasn’t just the efficiency that stood out.
As someone whose veins had often been difficult to access during treatment, she also appreciated the skill and reassurance of the nursing team.
“They were incredibly professional and gentle. They found my vein without any problems, and I always felt I was in experienced hands.”
The team also took the time to answer her questions about treatment, explain blood results where appropriate and provide reassurance between appointments with her oncologist.
“They never made me feel like I was asking too much. If they could help, they would, and if something needed my doctor’s advice, they’d tell me honestly. That openness gave me real confidence.”
Choosing to stay
Although she was offered the option of returning to hospital-based treatment if she preferred, Badriya never looked back.
“We decided I wanted to stay at the Pharmaxo Healthcare clinic. Even though it’s a little further to travel, I’d much rather make the extra journey. The care I’ve received there has been wonderful.”
Advice for others
Now, she hopes her experience will reassure others who may feel uncertain about attending a clinic like this for the first time.
“I’d say don’t hesitate. The nurses here have been brilliant, friendly and incredibly knowledgeable. They genuinely care about you as a person, and that makes such a difference.”
For anyone navigating a cancer diagnosis, her advice is equally heartfelt.
“Stay strong and try to keep hope. There will be dark days, but having positive people around you really helps. Take one step at a time, ask questions and don’t be afraid to accept support. You don’t have to go through it alone.”
Find out more about Pharmaxo Healthcare’s clinic services: https://pharmaxo.com/out-of-hospital-care/clinics/pharmaxo-healthcare-clinic/