“It’s been hard, but I just want some goodness to come out of this.” This is why a Cwmbran teenager is raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust after undergoing major treatment for a form of throat cancer.
Jess Morris, 18, lives with her sister Sophie Beavan in Pontnewydd. She moved to Cwmbran two years ago- and grew up with their mum at a pub in North West Wales.
She was diagnosed with Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma last October after developing symptoms, including difficulty and pain when opening her mouth.
In the following month, she underwent a 14‑hour operation in Cardiff, where surgeons removed the tumour along with part of her jaw. Bone, muscle and skin from her leg were used to rebuild the area.
“My surgeons were Mr Thomas, Mr Henry and Mr Vuti who were incredible and looked after me,” she said.
She spent three weeks in the University Hospital of Wales learning to talk, eat, drink and walk again. Further tests confirmed the cancer had spread to nerves and bone.
Six weeks later, Jessie began radiotherapy at Velindre Cancer Centre, attending daily sessions for six weeks. She rang the bell to mark the end of her treatment on Friday 20 February 2026.
She is now sharing her story to raise awareness and support the charity that helped her throughout her treatment and provides specialist support for young people facing cancer.
The Teenage Cancer Trust
“The Teenage Cancer Trust has helped me since the minute I got my diagnosis,” Jess said.
“When I first got diagnosed, they put me in touch with all the people that would help with mental health support and financial support.”
She thanked two staff members from the charity, Kate and Anna.
“I woke up from surgery and they were there for me if I needed anything. They helped to be independent, little stuff like that that meant a lot.
“They made sure I had everything I needed, regular checks, phone calls, coming to see me in hospital. I saw first-hand what the money does for people going through treatment.”
Sophie, her sister, joked: “She’s still here and still her sassy, weird self. [The Teenage Cancer Trust] has done a lot for Jess, so she just wants to help.”
Support the Teenage Cancer Trust
Make a donation to Jess’ Teenager Cancer Trust fundraiser here.