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Couple welcome 'miracle' daughter born through IVF after father's terminal cancer diagnosis
Overview
A man diagnosed with stage four bile duct cancer has welcomed a daughter, Birdie, born through IVF after he made a sperm donation just an hour before starting chemotherapy. Luke (also referred to as Liam) and his partner Lois funded the IVF privately after not qualifying for NHS support. Following successful treatment reducing some of his tumours, the couple's first round of IVF resulted in Birdie's birth in July 2026. Liam is now sharing his story to give hope to others living with cholangiocarcinoma and is fundraising for the AMMF charity.
Key points
- Luke (Liam), 38, from Lincoln, was diagnosed with stage four bile duct cancer in April 2025.
- He donated his sperm for IVF one hour before beginning his chemotherapy treatment.
- Because he already had two children from a previous relationship, the couple did not qualify for NHS funding and used the Nurture Fertility clinic in Nottingham.
- Their daughter, Birdie, was born in July 2026 after their first round of IVF was successful.
- Liam has shared his story as part of the Voices of Cholangiocarcinoma film to raise awareness and provide hope to others.