At the young age of 25, Chloe Wakelin’s life took an unexpected and terrifying turn when what she thought was a simple tummy bug turned out to be cancer. Chloe, a nursery worker from Rochdale, Greater Manchester, had been experiencing persistent tummy aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite for two months. Despite visiting her GP weekly during this time, tests for conditions like Crohn’s disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome came back negative, and she was reassured that it was likely just a viral stomach bug.
Chloe initially attributed her illness to working with children at the nursery or caring for her daughter, Harper-Ellen. However, as her symptoms persisted and worsened, she began to question the diagnosis. In January 2024, Chloe’s condition deteriorated rapidly, leading her to rush to A&E due to her skin turning yellow. Scans revealed a large mass in her colon that necessitated immediate surgery. Doctors informed Chloe that she was just 12 hours away from death as her liver and kidneys were failing.
Following a grueling seven-and-a-half-hour surgery, Chloe woke up with a stoma bag and the heartbreaking news that she had stage three colon cancer. Despite the shock and devastation of the diagnosis, Chloe underwent four rounds of chemotherapy and is now in remission. Reflecting on her journey, Chloe expresses feeling let down by the medical professionals who initially dismissed her concerns and is determined to raise awareness about the importance of recognising symptoms and seeking medical help.
Chloe recounts the emotional turmoil of being told she had cancer at 25, a diagnosis she had never fathomed. She emphasizes the speed with which life can change drastically, urging others not to disregard persistent symptoms, regardless of their age. Chloe highlights the need for vigilance and proactive healthcare-seeking behaviour, encouraging individuals to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms such as persistent blood in stools, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort.
The challenges Chloe faced in getting a correct diagnosis serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of advocating for one’s health and persisting in seeking answers when symptoms are concerning. Her journey from misdiagnosis to cancer treatment and eventual remission underscores the resilience and strength she exhibited throughout her battle. Chloe’s story is a testament to the resolve and courage required to confront a life-altering diagnosis and the imperative of early detection in improving cancer outcomes.
In retrospect, Chloe grapples with feelings of disbelief and frustration at the delayed diagnosis that put her life at risk. Her resilience and determination to share her story serve as a beacon of hope and awareness for others facing health challenges. Chloe’s message resonates deeply, urging individuals to prioritise their health, listen to their bodies, and seek medical attention promptly when symptoms arise, underscoring the critical role of early detection in effectively combating cancer and other serious illnesses.