A young woman in Wales has been given heartbreaking news that she has only days to live after being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, a type of cancer deemed “impossible to get” at her tender age. Alexandra Angeles Caycho, 21, had moved from Peru to Lancaster to pursue her passion in art and design at a local university in 2021. However, her life took a drastic turn when she began experiencing severe back and knee pain, leading to a stage three pancreatic cancer diagnosis when she was just 20 years old.
Alexandra initially attributed her symptoms to a rugby injury due to her active playing. Despite seeking medical help, she was misdiagnosed with hypermobility and flat feet before her condition worsened. With rapid deterioration in her health, including yellowing of her eyes and trouble sitting for extended periods, she was eventually diagnosed with stage four cancer that had spread to her liver.
Despite undergoing rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Alexandra’s health continued to decline, and she was informed that she had internal bleeding from the cancer, with doctors giving her only days to weeks left to live. Her desire to return home to Peru, where her family resides, has been hindered by the staggering costs of an air ambulance, amounting to £150,000.
Supported by her boyfriend, Dylan, and her mother, Linda, Alexandra has been sharing her journey on social media and raising funds through a GoFundMe page. Her family and friends are working tirelessly to fulfil her wish to spend her remaining time surrounded by loved ones in Peru. Despite the immense challenges and emotional strain, they remain determined to support Alexandra in every way possible.
Alexandra’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the harsh realities faced by those battling terminal illnesses and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. As she bravely confronts the devastating prognosis, the outpouring of support from the community offers solace amidst unimaginable circumstances.