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Young Woman's Cancer Misdiagnosed as Hay Fever
2 Feb
Summary
- A 21-year-old woman was diagnosed with blood cancer.
- She initially mistook her symptoms like fatigue and rash for hay fever.
- She has since undergone chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments.
Izzy Darnes, a 21-year-old from Narborough, Leicestershire, received a life-altering diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in June of last year, after initially attributing her symptoms to common illnesses. She experienced fatigue for about a week and noticed a rash and bruising, which she believed were due to hay fever and clumsiness while redecorating.
Her condition deteriorated over a weekend, prompting her to seek medical help. After being seen by a GP, she was referred to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where further tests confirmed her blood cancer diagnosis. Despite her young age, she never suspected cancer.
Darnes underwent months of intensive chemotherapy and immunotherapy, with treatment scheduled to end in April. The ordeal led to complications, including a severe stomach infection and temporary mobility loss, requiring her to use a wheelchair and crutch. This loss of independence deeply affected her.
During her recovery, she has been fundraising for The Children and Young People's Cancer Association, raising over £3,700. She finds purpose in this endeavor while unable to work, aiming to raise awareness about cancer in young people and the importance of early diagnosis. Darnes now views life as more precious and has become more compassionate as a result of her experience.
