In February 2024, I received a life-changing diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma, a journey that began with what I thought was a routine backache. As someone who loved weightlifting, I initially believed I’d simply pushed myself too hard. But as the pain worsened, I found myself in bed by 8 p.m. most nights, struggling with discomfort despite multiple visits to the doctor. Prescriptions for pain relief helped temporarily, but the pain persisted.
Eventually, my doctor recommended an MRI – scheduled for two months away. Taking a friend’s advice, I decided to go for a private appointment through Benenden Health, and within a week, I had my scan. Little did I know that this would be the best decision I could make.
My partner and I had planned to enjoy lunch after the appointment, but instead, I was handed a letter advising an immediate trip to A&E. After hours of waiting and several tests, I was told to go home, with a warning to return if symptoms worsened. Sure enough, by Saturday morning, I was experiencing pins and needles. A call to 111 led to another trip to the hospital. The following Monday, as I prepared to dive into work, I received a call that changed everything – I needed to come to the hospital immediately.
Sitting in a quiet car with my brother on the way to the hospital, I tried to process what lay ahead. Finally, in a small room, I heard the words no one wants to hear: "You have cancer." In that moment, my thoughts went to my partner and my daughter. Then we started googling.
After two weeks of multiple tests and a dreaded bone marrow biopsy, I was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, with a tumour on my spine pressing dangerously close to my spinal cord, threatening paralysis at any time. That was just the beginning of this journey.
I share this story to bring awareness to the importance of listening to our bodies and advocating for our health. It’s been a challenging path, but I am grateful for the support around me and am facing this journey with hope, strength, and resilience.
