Her determination will continue to inspire - loved ones pay tribute to deeply missed Olivia Knowles
Her strength, warmth and determination will continue to inspire everyone whose lives she touched - are some of the heartfelt words from those who were lucky enough to meet Olivia Jane Knowles.
Olivia Jane Knowles from Poulton was a well-respected ‘Old Arnoldian’, now known as AKS Lytham, who sadly lost her courageous battle with AML (Acute Myeloid Leukaemia) and passed away peacefully on Thursday, February, 12, 2026, aged just 34.
Many of her love ones have paid beautiful tributes to their dear friend who “loved the sun”.
While there were too many tributes to publish, here are some of the many things people had to say about Olivia:
“Today, tomorrow, our whole life through, we will always love and miss you” - Mum and Dad.
“The world was a far better place because you were in it” - Kath.
“I will also be grateful that I got to call you my friend” - Charlie.
“You totally changed my view on life and what’s important” - Darren.
“Thank you for choosing us to walk alongside you in this life as your best friends” - Ami and Tidge.
Olivia was first diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in 2023 despite being a keen athlete who had completed international triathlons that same year.
She underwent intensive treatment and spent long periods in hospital, later continuing to fundraise for cancer research even after learning her illness had returned.
Her strength and positivity resonated deeply within the local community - reflected in the large turnout at her funeral service which was held earlier this week at St Cuthbert's Church.
Excelled in sport
Throughout her time at Arnold (1997 to 2006) Olivia was an incredibly determined and ambitious pupil.
She excelled in sport, particularly tennis, hockey and running, talents which later supported her in competing in the 2023 World Championship Half Marathon Ironman. Her dedication and resilience were evident in everything she pursued.
Although diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age, she never allowed it to define her. Through perseverance and strength of character, she achieved academic excellence and became an A* student.
Olivia often spoke with great fondness of two teachers in particular - Ms De Miranda and Miss Raby. She made a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Even years later, when attending Arnold to watch a friend’s daughter play hockey for AKS, she was warmly greeted by them both, a testament to the impact she had during her school years.
After leaving school, Olivia was accepted into Liverpool University St John’s Moore to study biomedical science. She later qualified as a nutritionist and became a highly successful entrepreneur.
Driven by compassion and hope for others, she established The Knowles Foundation to support research into AML, so that one day the next person diagnosed will not be an “almost”.
She will be deeply missed
Olivia will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her strength, warmth and determination will continue to inspire everyone whose lives she touched.
The Knowles Foundation was created in June 2025 to aid the research of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and other blood cancers, in celebration of Olivia Knowles. If you wish to donate in aid of AML research, and in honour of Olivia, you can do so here.