Redkite’s program has helped cancer-victim Harriet Wells get life-changing therapy

After a rare cancer and major surgery, teenager Harriet Wells was left unable to walk – and the therapy to help her learn is hugely expensive. But she’s just received big news.

Harriet Wells is a finalist in Redkite's Dare to Dream program Picture Instagram

Harriet Wells dreams to travel the world freely one day after a rare type of cancer affected her ability to walk.

In 2020, at just 15, Harriet was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma – a cancer that occurs in muscle tissue and bones.

Now 18, Harriet walks with a walking stick after a major surgery consisting of a hip replacement and the removal of part of her pelvis and “a lot” of her muscles.

“I’ve been left with a really uneven gait and it’s quite difficult for me to walk sometimes,” she said.

Harriet walking for the first time after her surgery. Picture: Supplied.

Harriet said she was “shattered” when she first learnt of her diagnosis.

“I was so excited to start year 10 because that’s the year when everything starts to get exciting,” she said.

Being only 15, Harriet was worried she would miss out on social events with her friends.

“It was a pretty awful feeling because I had to cancel so many things.”

“I’ve always loved school so I really missed being there,” she said.

Harriet Wells was diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma at 15. Picture Instagram.

While receiving treatment in Adelaide, Harriet did hospital school where she completed year 10.

Harriet and her family went to Sydney in order for life-changing surgery which left her feeling isolated from her friends.

“I didn’t know anyone there, that was pretty hard,” she said.

Harriet returned to school in 2021 to begin year 11 where she said she was welcomed by close friends who helped her with the adjustment.

The Seymour College student said the school was accommodating and moved her classes to the bottom floor of multistorey buildings so she could easily access her classrooms.

After starting school, Harriet heard of a life-changing study involving therapy using a Lokomat machine, which would strengthen her ability to walk.

“The difficulty of walking was holding me back so much.” she said. “It improved my walking so much for about a year after but it was so expensive.”

When made aware of Redkite and Coles’ Dare to Dream program, Harriet said she applied in the hopes of getting funding for another six weeks of therapy.

“I didn’t have too many expectations because I didn’t want to get my hopes up,” she said.

Harriet’s first time using the Lokomat machine at the beginning of 2021. Picture: Supplied.

Harriet said she was pleasantly surprised when she heard the news she was a finalist and was going to be granted $3000.

Harriet Wells received funding after being selected as a finalist in Redkite's Dare to Dream program. Picture Instagram

“I just didn’t want to be held back and I wanted to have the same and equal opportunities as other people,” she said.

“I still have the opportunity to use my own two feet so why not make the best out of that opportunity.”

Harriet is yet to set a date for her next round of Lokomat therapy, but hopes to start as soon as possible so that can she travel with as much ease as possible.

“I just want to go everywhere in Europe,” she told The Advertiser.

Harriet said she’s always wanted to take a gap year and that she won’t let a change of circumstances effect that.

“It might look a little bit different, but I’m still going to make it work,” she said.

Despite the positive impact of the therapy, Harriet said she will most likely need a walking stick for the rest of her life.

The 18-year-old is currently living in Sydney with her boyfriend but hopes to return to Adelaide soon to study law at the University of Adelaide.