Emily' Biography

When one hs lost a loved one, particularly one as young as Emily and in such tragic circumstances, its easy to romanticise and see that person through rose tinted glasses, but Emily Begg and those who knew her well, would vouch for the fact she was, very simply a genuinely charming, witty, bright, determined, and ultimately incredibly brave, remarkable and inspirational young lady.

But we need to start at the beginning.

Emily Charlotte Begg was born on Friday 17th July 1992, as the only daughter to Colleen and Stuart, Alex, Rod and Daniel made very interesting brothers and there was never a dull moment.

Emily developed a beautiful smile at just five weeks old, something that was to prove to be one of her most beautiful assets over the next fourteen years.  She was a charming child who showed a gread deal of determination from an early age and would always be very clear about decisions....... 'I not do that', she would say.  In later years she learned to put forward a reasoned and logical argument in any situation in order to get you to see her point of view, and she usually managed.

Emily was a very socialble girl and eagerly started school in September 1996, never looking back.  She enjoyed her early school years at Our Lady of Ransom, Rayleigh and made many friends during her time there.  Emily was always praised for trying her best and achieving her full potential, of which she should be very proud.

The 3rd September 2003, was Emily's first day at Brentwood Ursuline High School for Girls, her chosen secondary school.  We recall dropping her at Wickford station, a somewhat aprehensive yet very excited young lady, about to embark for the first time on the train journey to Brentwood.  Emily rose to the challenge with great maturity and resolve, something that was to stand her in good stead for what was to come just two years later.

Emily was a great observer of people and exacted immense joy from watching and quickly weighing people up whatever the situation.  She delighted in the variety of personalities she saw on the train to and from school every day and shared many whispered comments with friends, followed by hoots of laughter.

Emily formed close relationships with those she chose to, and her influence and inspiration on those people has since been evident.  Emily enjoyed school immensely, but quickly realised she missed the easy chat with boys, however she rectified this with the used of MSN.  Emily made some very special friendships at school, which we knew she treasured greatly.  Their support during the difficult times in hospital meant so much to Em.

However, she has a very unique friendship with her best friend, also Emily, which they enjoyed from an early age.  Emily Kenny lived just three doors away and despite being two years older was Emily's soul mate.  They spent many special times throughout the years and thier friendship stood firm to the end.  Although they had their ups and downs, the bond between them never wavered and I know Emily was ever grateful to Emily Kenny for the many hours spent at the hospital during her long battle with leukaemia.  Not an easy time for either of them.

Emily naturally full of fun and truly great company, whether it was shopping in the supermarket, a train journey, a football match, or at home sending messages on MSN, her character always shone through and no matter what, Emily never held a grudge.

One of Emily's greatest attributes was her smile, a smile that could 'light up a room' and irrespective of how well, or badly, life was going, she always managed a smile.

Despite being extremely feminine, well groomed and beautiful, Emily had an amazing passion for football.  Introduced to the game at Colchester United at the tender age of 10, she quickly knew every word of every song and chant, and could recognise any player from 400 metres!  Emily cared immensely how her team performed, but such was her interest in enjoying the whole day's events that she never let defeat on the pitch spoil her day.

On September 22nd 2006, Emily was diagnosed with Leukaemia.  A very frightened yet incredibly brave young lady was whisked off to University College Hospital in London where she endured months of Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy and ultimately a Bone Marrow Transplant.  Through all the treatment and the vile side effects Emily retained that smile, conducted herself with immense determination, extraordinary courage, and all with a maturity and courage way beyond her years.

Emily had always expressed an interest in a career in law, but just prior to relapsing in May 2006, she had a leaning to medicine, saying this would give her the opportunity to give something back and make a difference.  It is hard to think she would not have excelled in whatever her chosen career.

Emily earned the respect of all who cared for her and has proved an inspiration to many more who met her.  How many people her age could possibly react to being told they are terminally ill by responding, "I am not afraid of dying but I wanted to make a difference to the lives of other teenagers experiencing treatment for Cancer".  She asked her family to fund raise for The Teenage Cancer Trust, so her work continues.

Emily's beauty exuded from inside, and was evident outside.  Emily Charlotte Begg was a remarkable young lady who has been an example and inspiration to so many, and is greatly missed by all.