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Triple Cancer Diagnosis: Sisters Face Chemo Together
10 Sep
Summary
- Three sisters diagnosed with rare IRF8 gene deficiency.
- Each sister requires intensive chemotherapy and possible transplants.
- Their mother previously battled cancer three times.
A devastating triple diagnosis has struck a family in Horden, Durham, where three sisters are now undergoing chemotherapy for an extremely rare genetic condition. Lesley Owens, a mother who has previously battled cancer three times, is supporting her daughters, Sinead (20), Caitlyn (18), and Rhiann (16), who have been diagnosed with IRF8 gene deficiency.
This rare condition severely weakens the immune system, making the sisters vulnerable to infections. All three require intensive chemotherapy as a precursor to potential bone marrow and stem cell transplants. Adding to the tragedy, Sinead has been diagnosed with vulvar cancer, Rhiann has cancerous cells in the same area, and Caitlyn is awaiting test results for cancerous cells.
The sisters are drawing strength from their mother's past cancer journeys. Tyler Heyworth, an older sister, has established a GoFundMe to help with expenses such as wigs, clothing, and transport to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.
Rhiann has already completed her chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant but recently returned to the hospital due to an infection, highlighting the fragility of her immune system. Her sisters are now preparing for their own chemotherapy treatments.
