On 24 November 2015 I was given the devastating news that I had Small Cell Stomach Cancer (a rare cancer). My first thoughts were for my 3 beautiful young daughters, who at the time were 14, 8 and 3.
As most families were preparing for Christmas my family were preparing for my 1st chemotherapy session, which involved a 10 hour day hooked up to a machine. As the cancer is so rare and very little data is available I was treated as a Small Cell Lung Cancer patient.
A scan after 3 chemotherapy sessions showed the tumour had shrunk by more than 50% & this was extremely encouraging. A planning scan ready for Radiotherapy also showed shrinkage. After 6 gruelling chemotherapy sessions & 15 Radiotherapy sessions I had another scan.
Sadly I was delivered more devastating news that a new tumour had grown. I am now classed as terminal & according to statistics that are held I have a ONE YEAR life expectancy. I am 36 years old.
My heart breaks every day for my 3 beautiful daughters, husband & parents (I am an only child). I am desperately reaching out as a cancer patient to raise awareness of this type of cancer. If anyone has any knowledge or information on clinical trials that I may be suitable for I urge you to contact me please. My symptoms (which appeared 4/5 months before diagnosis) were: extreme tiredness, bad skin, discolouration of teeth, burping, feeling full after a small meal & pain in my back (located where bra fastens). In Sept 2016 2 further tumours were discovered in my neck & mid chest area
I know my story will resonate with many families around the world, however if I can save someone from this pain and anguish that my family and I are experiencing then my story would not be in vain.
Friends, family & the community of Mansfield Woodhouse and surrounding areas are hoping to raise awareness of this disease and raise as much money as possible for Liz to undergo treatment that could possibly extend her life and that has to be paid for privately.