A young woman from Somerset received an ovarian cancer diagnosis at just 22 years old after her symptoms, including a 'pregnancy-like' lump, were repeatedly dismissed by doctors as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Initial Symptoms Dismissed
Daniella Capitas Webster first noticed something was wrong when a scan detected a cyst on her ovary in late 2021. However, doctors informed her that cysts are common and often resolve on their own, advising no intervention was necessary. Daniella 'carried on with life' until additional symptoms emerged around 12 months later, including a bloated stomach that made her 'look like she was a few months pregnant.' A GP reportedly told her she likely had IBS and sent her away once more.
Persistent Symptoms Lead to Diagnosis
When the lump on her abdomen continued to grow, Daniella visited the doctors again and was finally referred for scans. She was diagnosed with rare mucinous ovarian cancer in June 2023 and underwent surgery to remove her ovary along with multiple rounds of chemotherapy. Now 24 and cancer-free, Daniella continues to endure lasting effects such as hearing loss, neuropathy, a weakened immune system, memory loss, joint and muscle pain, and chronic fatigue.
Advice for Others
Daniella encourages those concerned about their health to 'trust your instincts' and 'persevere until you are taken seriously.' She said: 'If you're worried about signs and symptoms, it's important that you don't just speak up, but persevere until you're taken seriously.' Ashley Ball-Gamble, CEO of CCLG: The Children and Young People's Cancer Association, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, noting that approximately 2,300 teenagers and young adults receive a cancer diagnosis annually in the UK.
Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
- Pain or swelling in your stomach
- A feeling of fullness or bloating in your tummy
- Irregular periods
- Needing to urinate more often
Daniella's story highlights the critical need for young people to advocate for themselves and for healthcare providers to consider cancer in differential diagnoses, even in young patients.
