Every person whose life has been affected by cancer has a different story to tell. We believe by listening to these stories and understanding them, we’ll be able to learn from them and improve things in the future. This is called patient engagement and experience.

This page covers stories from patients involved in the work of the Cancer Alliance. We want to take this opportunity to thank everybody who has shared their story.

If you have a story to share please get in touch or alternatively you can join our membership.

Assad's story

Assad is 28 and was treated for his cancer in Sheffield when he was 25. He didn't want his picture included here but he wants to tell his story so that others can learn from his experience and be encouraged to get checked out early, and properly, by medical experts and not the internet!

 

My cancer journey began from an unexpected place. At 21, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, which required me to have regular blood tests. During one of these routine tests, doctors noticed that my liver markers were out of range, prompting an MRI scan to investigate. It was during this scan that doctors found abnormalities in my gallbladder. What was initially thought to be gallbladder sludge turned out to be something far more serious - a cancerous polyp growing silently inside.

 

Since I was completely asymptomatic, hearing the word “cancer” was a complete shock. The first thoughts that ran through my mind were of fear and uncertainty. Like many people, I instinctively turned to Google for answers, but my advice to anyone facing a similar diagnosis would be not to do this. Online information can often be outdated or based on data from much older populations, making it less relevant to younger people and needlessly frightening.

 

The next step in my journey was a PET scan to determine if the cancer had spread. Thankfully, it hadn’- it was confined to my gallbladder. To ensure the best chance at eliminating the cancer and preventing its return, I underwent a liver resection surgery. In this procedure, part of my liver was removed as a precaution, since it was close to the affected area. It was a major surgery but one I’m glad I had. The liver tissue was tested afterwards, and thankfully it was confirmed that I was completely cancer-free.

 

Throughout this experience, I had an exceptional medical team supporting me. Dr. Al Mukhtar, my primary surgeon at Sheffield, performed both of my surgeries. His confidence, expertise, and the way he broke down complex medical information into simple, reassuring terms were invaluable. Nurse Heather Allen was another lifeline during this challenging time. She provided emotional support, being there for me whenever I felt anxious, and was always available on the 'phone, on email, or in person to guide me through every step.

 

During the most difficult times, one thing that truly helped was exercise. It didn’t need to be anything strenuous - even a walk outside made a big difference. Keeping my body moving released dopamine, which really helped to relieve the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Staying active became a source of mental strength and a way to feel in control of my body and health.

 

In addition to exercise, I leaned heavily on my family and friends. Having their support and talking openly with them about my feelings became essential. Sometimes, being left alone with my thoughts was overwhelming, and those conversations brought me fresh perspectives and encouragement. Reaching out to loved ones brought me comfort and gave me the strength to face each day.

 

Since my diagnosis, I’ve started living life differently. I’ve travelled to eight different countries, a reminder that life is too short to wait on those bucket-list dreams. If there’s something you want to experience, do it now while you’re healthy and able.

 

It's now been three years since my initial gallbladder surgery, and I am still cancer-free. Looking back, I realise how crucial those routine blood tests were. Without them, I might never have known about the issue, since I had no symptoms. My biggest piece of advice to others is to stay on top of regular health checks and blood tests, even if you feel perfectly healthy. Early detection truly is the key to a better outcome and a longer, healthier life.

 

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Christine's Story

Christine explains her experience of being diagnosed during the Covid 19 pandemic, highlighting some key learning points for the health and care system. 

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Katie's Story

Katie Claydon, Barnsley, was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer in January 2021, aged just 22 years old. Katie talks through her journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer during the Covid-19…

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