Cancer survivor Mollie Mulheron fights for NHS fertility funding

Patient seeks funding after recovery

Mollie Mulheron, a 28-year-old woman from Padiham, recovered from aggressive stage four blood cancer but cannot access funded egg freezing. She spent approximately 800 hours undergoing chemotherapy over more than 150 days to become cancer-free. Doctors at St James Hospital in Leeds initially told her fertility protection was possible after treatment. However, she now lives in Lancashire where the local Integrated Care Board says she does not meet eligibility criteria. Mollie describes the situation as a postcode lottery because other locations allow the procedure while hers does not.

NHS policy creates uncertainty

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance suggests professionals discuss fertility preservation with patients facing treatments affecting reproduction. Mollie argues this guidance is not mandatory, allowing local bodies to interpret rules differently across the country. Her ovarian reserve has halved in one year and she faces likely early menopause without intervention. The Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board states decisions follow current Assisted Conception policy strictly. A spokesperson noted they are working collaboratively with Greater Manchester on these matters but cannot discuss specific cases.

Petition calls for change

Mollie started an online petition demanding better protection for young cancer survivors regarding fertility rights. She fears losing the option to have children in the future without immediate pressure to start a family. The patient wants time after recovery to rebuild her life before considering parenthood. Her case highlights inconsistencies in how different NHS regions apply national guidance on assisted conception funding.