A young woman named Hannah shared her experience of being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer after enduring four symptoms that were initially dismissed by doctors. Despite seeking medical advice for almost a year, her concerns were ignored. In the UK, an estimated 3.5 million people are living with cancer, emphasizing the importance of early detection for effective treatment.

Hannah, known for her travel adventures on social media, discovered a 12cm tumor on her spine after an eight-month struggle to find answers. She documented her journey on TikTok, highlighting the challenges she faced before receiving her diagnosis.

Her symptoms included a persistent cough, a full-body rash, severe fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Despite repeatedly contacting her GP with worsening symptoms, she was only advised to take antibiotics and see a pharmacist for paracetamol. Eventually, a nurse in the waiting room noticed her distress, leading to the discovery of sepsis and a mass around her spine.

After a junior doctor's instinct prompted further tests, Hannah was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. She commended the hospital care she received post-diagnosis, undergoing eight months of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and participation in a clinical trial.

Reflecting on her journey, Hannah urged others to advocate for their health and push for necessary tests. Early detection is crucial in improving cancer treatment outcomes, and seeking medical advice for concerning symptoms is always recommended.