It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Amani Liaquat has passed away, aged 23.
Amani died at home in the early hours of this morning (Monday 21st February).
The tragic news was announced on social media by her family. Amani’s 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!”
Amani, a first class honours law graduate who was recently awarded a Masters degree in Applied Social Welfare, with Distinction from the University of Bedfordshire, was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) after suffering a seizure at home on her 22nd birthday in April 2020.
After standard care failed to stop the growth of her tumour, her 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.
Amani, from Luton, was a much-loved supporter of Brain Tumour Research and an integral part of our #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 and, in one episode, interviewed Tom Parker, The Wanted singer and fellow GBM patient.
Hugh Adams, Head of Stakeholder Relations, 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.”
Our thoughts are with Amani’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
If you have been touched by Amani’s story, please donate to the Fight4Hope JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/campaign/Fight4Hope