A mother from York has transformed her daughter’s experience with cancer into a mission to help patients feel more comfortable and confident during treatment by creating a specialist adaptive clothing brand.

Emily Rhodes, a 24-year-old model, faced significant challenges finding suitable clothing after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. The side effects of treatment caused rapid weight gain and increased physical discomfort, making everyday dressing difficult.

According to her mother, Joanne Nicholson, the family often struggled to find clothes that met Emily’s needs. They frequently purchased oversized clothing simply because there were few alternatives designed specifically for patients undergoing medical treatment.

“There was nothing available that she truly felt comfortable wearing,” Joanne recalled. “We needed practical clothing that could accommodate the changes her body was going through.”

Drawing on her experience working within the NHS, Joanne began thinking about how healthcare workers have practical uniforms such as scrubs, while patients often lack clothing designed for comfort, accessibility, and dignity during treatment.

Emily, remembered by her family as someone who “lit up every room she entered,” passed away from cancer in April 2019 at the age of 24.

The loss had a profound impact on Joanne, who says she struggled deeply with grief in the months following her daughter’s death.

After spending nearly a year coping with the emotional aftermath, Joanne decided to channel her grief into something meaningful that could help others facing similar challenges.

Together with Emily’s brother, Matthew Rhodes, she founded EmAble, an adaptive fashion brand dedicated to creating accessible clothing for people undergoing medical treatment or living with disabilities and long-term health conditions.

The company focuses on designing garments that are easy to put on and remove, comfortable to wear for extended periods, and suitable for individuals dealing with mobility issues, treatment side effects, or sensitive skin.

Joanne says the business represents more than just clothing—it is a way to continue Emily’s legacy while supporting people during some of the most difficult periods of their lives.

The growing demand for adaptive fashion highlights increasing awareness of the need for inclusive clothing options that combine practicality, comfort, and style. Through EmAble, Joanne hopes to ensure that patients do not have to face the same challenges Emily experienced while searching for suitable clothing during her cancer treatment.

Today, the brand stands as a lasting tribute to Emily’s life and a reminder that personal loss can inspire meaningful change for others.