Beloved Teacher Returns to School After Life-Changing Cancer Surgery
There were emotional scenes at Leicester High School for Girls this term, as much-loved teacher Mrs Gill Wheeler returned to the classroom following life-saving surgery for a rare form of cancer.
Gill, who has taught at Leicester High for many years, was diagnosed with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) – an extremely rare type of cancer in the abdomen.
Gill underwent the aptly-named “the mother of all surgeries,” over Christmas 2024 at Basingstoke Hospital, a specialist centre for this type of cancer.
Despite the scale of the operation and a long recovery, Gill has made an extraordinary return to teaching. She said:
“This time last year, I didn’t know if I’d ever be back in school. To be here again, doing the job I love, is the greatest gift.”
Gill’s strength and positivity have been a source of inspiration to both pupils and staff. Now she’s setting her sights on a new challenge – completing a parkrun later this year.
Headmaster John Partridge paid tribute to her resilience:
“Gill is a treasured member of our school community. Her courage, determination and warmth have touched us all. We’re so proud to welcome her back.”
Gill will continue to be monitored, but for now, she is looking forward to everyday school life and the joy of returning to her normal routine. Her story is a reminder of the importance of hope, perseverance, and community support in the face of adversity.