A UNIVERSITY of Leicester graduate has passed away at the age of 23, after fighting an aggressive brain cancer, and campaigning fiercely to raise awareness of the disease.
Amani Liaquat was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), after suffering a seizure at home on her 22nd birthday, in April 2020.
However, despite such tragic news, the Leicester Alumi, went on to become a staunch campaigner and fundraiser with the charity Brain Tumour Research. Her social media profile attracted a strong following and led to her friendship with The Wanted star Tom Parker, who was also diagnosed with the same condition (GBM).
After standard of care failed to stop the growth of her tumour, Amani’s family decided to source life-prolonging treatment from Germany for which they, with the help of relatives, friends and complete strangers, raised more than £100,000 in 24 hours.
However Ms Liaquat, who graduated with a 1st class honours law degree from Leicester University, died at her home in the early hours of Monday morning (February 21).
The news of the 23-year-old’s passing was announced by her family on social media.
Her father, Khuram wrote: “Our beautiful daughter Amani breathed her last this morning at 12.30am. She fought GBM4 for 22 months but alas without proper investment, she had no chance. She’s my hero and was the most amazing ambassador for Brain Tumour Research. Love you forever Amani!”
She was a much-loved supporter of Brain Tumour Research and an integral part of the charity’s #BrainTumourPetition and Stop the Devastation campaigns.
She also undertook numerous fundraising and campaigning activities, including organising Luton’s first ever Walk of Hope and setting up the Fight4Hope fundraising group.
Her candid Chat2Amani podcasts were also well-received with thousands of people tuning in to follow her brain tumour journey as she explored issues such as loneliness and faith.
Hugh Adams, head of Stakeholder Relations, for Brain Tumour Research, said: “This tragic news has had a huge impact on those of us at Brain Tumour Research who had the privilege to know Amani and her extraordinary family. Amani’s story touched everyone who heard it, and that she was prepared to share so much of herself with others speaks volumes of the person she was.
“We cannot overstate just how many people now know about this vicious disease through Amani’s bravery and her commitment to make a difference by campaigning and raising awareness. She and her family spoke out at a time when it would have been easier for them to retreat and for that, along with our sadness, we have such respect and admiration for this remarkable young woman who has left us far too soon. Her legacy will be with us and drive us on to find a cure for brain tumours.”
To donate to the Fight4Hope cause, visit: www.justgiving.com/campaign/Fight4Hope
