Starting My Cancer Journey Unaware
Who hasn't experienced a hangover after a night of partying?
Poppy, a 19-year-old, assumed her symptoms were from alcohol consumed the previous night. These symptoms included a headache, vomiting, a bleeding wound in her nose, and a severe rash on her face. The nausea persisted, and she started coughing up blood.
Diagnosis Delayed by Misconceptions
Trips to the Hospital
Between June and October 2022, the 19-year-old was hospitalized three times after partying. The doctors suspected deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot in a vein deep in the body.
In December, she visited another doctor with neck pain and repeated her symptoms. This time, the doctor raised alarm bells.
Unveiling the Truth
Subsequent examinations revealed that Poppy Beguely had stage three lymphoma and a six-centimeter tumor in her breast. "I was terrified, thinking something catastrophic could be happening, and no one would figure it out," recalled Poppy.
Just weeks into her 20th birthday, she started chemotherapy for four months.
Life-Threatening Complications
Poppy suffered severe reactions to blood transfusions, which led to extreme pain and required the administration of numerous painkillers. This eventually caused damage to her stomach and intestines, dropping her weight to an alarming 35 kilos. She was fed via a tube as a result.
"That was the only time I truly feared for my life," said Poppy.
Poppy is now recovering and has returned to the workplace. "Thankfully, this experience has given me a different perspective on life," she shared. "I'm grateful to have my life back after such an uncertain year."
Regaining Happiness and Hope
Returning to Work
Poppy has made significant strides in getting her life back on track. She is back to working and appreciates the tiny pleasures more than ever.
Newfound Gratitude and Perspective
After dealing with her illness, Poppy has developed a deeper sense of gratitude and a more optimistic outlook on life.
Lessons Learned
Poppy's harrowing experience serves as an eye-opener, reminding us to cherish our health and life more.
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