A much-loved Wigan mum has spoken about her determination to “make the most of each day” after receiving the devastating news that her cancer has returned and is now considered terminal.
Sonia Hughes, 46, from Scholes, was first diagnosed with small cell lung cancer in February last year. Following treatment, her scans showed no visible signs of active disease, with only scar tissue remaining. She continued to be closely monitored due to the aggressive nature of the illness.
In a heartbreaking twist, Sonia was told her cancer has returned almost a year to the day since she rang the bell to mark the end of her radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment.
in May this year, she and her family were recently given the news that the cancer has returned, with a large tumour now found on her liver.
Doctors have told Sonia that without treatment she may have around three months to live, and with treatment her prognosis could extend to approximately six to twelve months, with the diagnosis leaving her family, including her daughter and two sons, devastated.
Speaking about how she is coping, Sonia said she is trying to focus on the time she has left and the people she loves.
“I don’t know how I’m coping,” she said. “I have to make the most of each day because I might not have many left.
“I am going to keep on smiling, and I want to make memories. I want to do a spa day, as I’ve never done a spa day, and I want to go to Glasgow, Ireland or maybe all three if I get the chance.”
Sonia also spoke openly about the emotional weight of planning for the future, including arranging her own funeral so her children do not have to face that responsibility at such a painful time.
Despite everything she is facing, she continues to speak with honesty, strength, and perspective. When I asked her if she felt anger about her situation, Sonia instead reflected on life itself.
“What makes me angry is when I see people wasting their lives, and here’s me,” she said.
“I’ve tried my best, I try to be kind, and I don’t judge people… yet when I see people wasting their lives, that makes me angry.
“Life is a gift and it’s beautiful. People should appreciate it.”
Those who know Sonia describe her as warm, friendly, and full of life, with an infectious smile that leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets.
From a personal perspective, after speaking with Sonia and visiting her at home, her response when I asked her if she was angry stuck with me.
She has the most beautiful smile and couldn’t be more warm, friendly and genuinely lovely to be around. We had spoken on the phone before I went to see her… that made me take time away from work to take my niece to the beach, just to slow down and be present, even ending up with my car full of sand and mud.
When I mentioned this to Sonia, she simply said: “And you should.”
She is a reminder of something so simple, yet so powerful, to value time, and the people in it.
It’s hard to put into words how unfair this is. Just such a beautiful, dignified and lovely lady facing something so cruel. But even now, Sonia continues to focus on kindness, gratitude, and making memories with her family.
A fundraising appeal has been launched by Sonia’s loved ones to help support her and her family during this incredibly difficult time. Anyone wishing to donate or share the appeal can do so via the link here.
