I'm battling aggressive cancer at just 30 after my GP told me common sign was ‘normal in young people'
Beth Ferguson, 30, was told it was "highly unlikely" she had the disease after she noticed a lump in her left breast.
11
Beth felt the small growth in October 2022 while in the shower.
However, her GP wasn't concerned because the lump was smooth and mobile - which can mean it's a cyst or benign lump.
They referred Beth to the local breast clinic anyway, but when she arrived, she was told it was "nothing to worry about" as "younger people have lumpy boobs".
Ten months on from her GP visit, Beth noticed the lump was growing.
She said: "It started off small, it gradually got bigger and never really went away.
"I have no family history of breast cancer, so I thought it was unlikely to be anything serious."
The teacher went back to her surgery, and was referred to Gartnavel Hospital, Glasgow.
A few days after an ultrasound and biopsy, she was diagnosed with a triple negative tumour.
After 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a breast reconstruction and immunotherapy she was given the all clear in May 2024.
Beth, a physics and maths teacher, from Glasgow, said: "After noticing the lump, I went to my doctor, who said I was fine.
Jessie J breaks down in tears in heartbreaking hospital video as she has surgery after breast cancer diagnosis
"They referred me to the local breast clinic, and the consultant said it was a cyst and there was nothing to worry about.
"They said I was young, and younger people have lumpy boobs.
"After that, I wasn't worried; they said if anything changes, or it gets bigger, to come back."
The breast clinic consultant said it was most likely to be a cyst, and nothing to worry about as "younger people have lumpy boobs".
11
11
Beth said: "At that point, I wasn't worried; it put my mind at ease.
"The consultant wasn't concerned, as it was small and I was so young, but suggested I return if there were any changes.
"Life went on - I was training for and completed the Boston Marathon and got engaged to my partner in New York."
In August 2023, just before the new school year started, Beth went back to medics and was told she had a large, aggressive triple negative tumour.
Beth said: "Looking back, I was a bit numb to be honest, you almost don't believe it because I felt so healthy and fit.
"It was the healthiest I have ever been, it was such a strange feeling to be so well but have such a terrible illness."
Beth decided to freeze her eggs as she was going to be put on "induced menopause" to protect her ovaries during treatment.
In October 2023, Beth started chemotherapy - which ended in March 2024 - and immunotherapy was completed in November 2024.
Beth said: "I largely coped well with the side effects and stayed very active between treatments.
"I continued my marathon training, I went to the gym, and I was still working for the first few months.
"One of the worst side effects was that I was put on induced menopause.
"They shut down my ovaries to protect them - I went into menopause overnight."
11
'Struggle with aftereffects'
In April 2024, Beth underwent reconstruction surgery on her left breast.
She said getting the all clear was "a strange feeling".
"I don't think it is what I imagined," she said.
"I have struggled with the aftereffects of how to move on with my life.
"Although it was great news, and everyone around me was happy - it was the start of anxiety for me."
Beth is now supporting new research funded by Breast Cancer Now and Secondary1st, which is hoping to develop a more targeted treatment for people with triple negative breast cancer.
What are the signs of breast cancer?
BREAST cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK.
The majority of women who get it are over 50, but younger women and, in rare cases, men can also get breast cancer.
If it's treated early enough, breast cancer can be prevented from spreading to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue.
Most breast lumps aren't cancerous, but it's always best to have them checked by your doctor. You should also speak to your GP if you notice any of the following:
a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
discharge from either of your nipples (which may be streaked with blood)
a lump or swelling in either of your armpits
dimpling on the skin of your breasts
a rash on or around your nipple
a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
Source: NHS
Professor Seth Coffelt at the University of Glasgow has been awarded £399,670 to fund research that will help further understanding of a type of immune cell that can kill triple negative breast cancer cells and stop them spreading.
Triple negative breast cancer is also more likely than most other breast cancers to return or spread within five years following diagnosis.
Beth said: "I appreciate that the research is being funded at the Beatson Institute "It was the team in Glasgow which treated me and cared for me, with everything I have been through.
"Everyone in the NHS and the Beatson was amazing - I received really great care there.
"It's so important that we have more research into triple negative breast cancer, it's what keeps me going every day - the hope that researchers will find other targeted therapies in time for people like me."
11
11
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
33 minutes ago
- The Sun
Warning over ‘contaminated' tomatoes sold across UK after surge in deadly infection that left 100 ill & 14 hospitalised
FOOD safety chiefs have issued an urgent warning over a popular salad staple. Certain tomatoes have been linked to a deadly infection that's already left a dozen people in hospital. Health officials have sounded the alarm after a deadly salmonella outbreak was linked to tomatoes — with more than 100 people falling ill and at least 14 rushed to hospital. The alert comes after the worrying outbreak sparked fears over contaminated produce, prompting health bosses to advise shoppers to check their tomatoes carefully and follow hygiene advice. Two nasty strains of the diarrhoea -inducing bug have been behind the surge in cases this year, with experts pointing the finger at contaminated tomatoes as the likely culprit. Worryingly, the infections aren't limited to one region — cases have been reported across the UK, prompting a nationwide health warning from safety chiefs. Tests revealed that every case in the outbreak was caused by two rare strains of the bug — Salmonella Blockley and Salmonella Strathcona — with health chiefs warning the latter can cause particularly severe illness. S. Blockley is usually found in East Asia and the US, and has only been recorded a handful of times across Europe, making the spike in UK cases even more alarming. It comes as new figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show salmonella infections have soared in the first three months of 2025 — up significantly compared to the same period in 2023 and 2024. What is Salmonella? Salmonella is typically linked to meat, eggs and poultry — but experts now warn contaminated tomatoes are behind a wave of stomach-churning illness sweeping the UK. The nasty bug, which infects the gut of farm animals, can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and fever — and while most people recover within days, in some cases it can prove deadly. According to 2024 data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), 81 cases of the rare S. Blockley strain were confirmed by lab tests — all linked to tomatoes. Three dead and two hospitalised after food poisoning outbreak linked to desserts in NHS hospitals At least 14 people were hospitalised. The fruit was also blamed for a separate outbreak of Salmonella Strathcona, affecting another 24 people. Officials say it's still unclear where the tomatoes came from — whether they were UK-grown or imported. Experts say the soft, porous texture of tomatoes makes them more vulnerable to salmonella — especially as they're often eaten raw, meaning bugs aren't killed off by cooking. Symptoms of Salmonella Blockley to look out for SYMPTOMS of Salmonella Blockley, a specific type of Salmonella infection, are similar to general Salmonella infection. Common symptoms include: Diarrhoea - This is often the most prominent symptom. Stomach cramps or abdominal pain -This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Fever - A temperature elevation is a common symptom. Nausea and vomiting - Some individuals experience nausea and may also vomit. Chills -This can be associated with fever. Headache - Some individuals may experience headaches. Blood in the stool - In some cases, blood can be present in the stool. Salmonella symptoms typically last for four to seven days, and most people recover without needing specific treatment. You should see a doctor for salmonella symptoms if your symptoms are severe, prolonged, or you are at increased risk of complications. This includes infants, young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms Symptoms usually appear 12 to 72 hours after infection, and those most at risk include the elderly, young children and anyone with a weakened immune system. Health officials are urging Brits to be on high alert for the symptoms of salmonella infection, which can last anywhere from four to seven days. The most common signs include diarrhoea — which may be watery and occasionally contain blood or mucus — stomach cramps, fever, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and chills. These symptoms can vary in intensity, but even mild cases can leave people feeling drained. In more serious instances, the illness can lead to severe dehydration, particularly in infants, older adults, or those with weakened immune systems. Some sufferers may go on to develop reactive arthritis, a painful condition that causes swelling and stiffness in the joints, or even enteric fever — a rare but dangerous form of the illness that brings on high fever, exhaustion and severe sickness requiring urgent antibiotic treatment. While most people recover without medical intervention, doctors advise seeking help if symptoms are severe or don't improve after a few days, if there's blood in the stool, or if signs of dehydration — such as dizziness or reduced urination — are present. Anyone preparing fresh produce like tomatoes is reminded to wash them thoroughly, store them properly, and follow general food hygiene guidance to reduce the risk of infection. Treatment There is no specific treatment for most cases of salmonella infection, as it usually clears up on its own within a week. The primary focus is on staying hydrated, especially if diarrhoea and vomiting are severe, to prevent dehydration. Drinking plenty of fluids such as water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths is essential. In some cases, doctors may recommend over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms like fever and cramps, but antibiotics are generally not prescribed unless the infection is severe, spreads beyond the intestines, or affects high-risk groups such as infants, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems. If complications like enteric fever or reactive arthritis develop, more intensive medical treatment, including antibiotics or specialist care, may be required. Anyone experiencing serious symptoms or prolonged illness should seek medical advice promptly to ensure proper care and avoid complications. Prevention Preventing salmonella largely comes down to good hygiene and safe food practices. Experts say there are several simple steps that can dramatically reduce your risk of infection. Always thoroughly cook meat, poultry, and seafood to the correct internal temperature, and avoid cross-contamination by using separate chopping boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods. Handwashing is crucial — especially after using the toilet, changing nappies, handling raw produce or meat, and before preparing or eating food. When travelling, stick to bottled or properly treated water, particularly in countries where sanitation may be poor. Avoid ice cubes or uncooked foods that may have been rinsed in contaminated water. While there's no vaccine for general salmonella, typhoid fever — a severe form of salmonella — can be prevented through vaccination, which is recommended for travellers heading to high-risk areas. Taking these precautions can help you avoid getting seriously ill — and stop the spread of infection to others. 2 Do I have food poisoning? Food poisoning is rarely serious and usually gets better within a week. It's hard to miss the symptoms, which include: Feeling sick (nausea) Diarrhoea Being sick (vomiting) Stomach cramps A high temperature of 38C or above Feeling generally unwell – such as feeling tired or having aches and chills The symptoms usually start within a few days of eating the food that caused the infection. Sometimes they start after a few hours or not for a few weeks How to treat food poisoning You can usually treat yourself or your child at home. The symptoms usually pass within a week. The most important thing is to have lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. You should also see a doctor if along with other symptoms you have high fever, blood in your stool, or feel dehydrated or unable to keep any food or liquid down. Make sure you stay off school or work until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least 2 days. Source: NHS
The Independent
43 minutes ago
- The Independent
Ashley James issues botox warning after injection left her unable to smile
Ashley James has issued a botox warning after a botched injection left her unable to smile. Appearing on This Morning on Tuesday (15 July), the presenter revealed that she receives masseter botox to help stop her from grinding her jaw. However, she shared with hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard that one injection two months ago left her "unable to smile and completely paralysed'. James shared that the effects have only just worn off and she now has full motion in her face back, however, said that the experience left her feeling 'ashamed and embarrassed'. The NHS advises speaking to an expert before having cosmetic procedures, doing comprehensive research, and choosing a reputable, safe and qualified practitioner.
The Independent
43 minutes ago
- The Independent
The concerning symptoms to look out for on holiday and when you return
Summer is synonymous with adventure, with millions flocking to exotic destinations to experience different cultures, cuisines and landscapes. But what happens when the souvenir you bring back isn't a fridge magnet or a tea towel, but a new illness? International travel poses a risk of catching something more than a run-of-the-mill bug, so it's important to be vigilant for the telltale symptoms. Here are the main ones to look out for while away and when you return. Fever Fever is a common symptom to note after international travel – especially to tropical or subtropical regions. While a feature of many different illnesses, it can be the first sign of an infection – sometimes a serious one. One of the most well-known travel-related illnesses linked to fever is malaria. Spread by mosquito bites in endemic regions, malaria is a protozoal infection that often begins with flu-like symptoms, such as headache and muscle aches, progressing to severe fever, sweating and shaking chills. Other signs can include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), swollen lymph nodes, rashes and abdominal pain – though symptoms vary widely and can mimic many other illnesses. Prompt medical attention is essential. Malaria is serious and can become life-threatening. It's also worth noting that symptoms may not appear until weeks or even months after returning home. In the UK, there are around 2,000 imported malaria cases each year. Travellers to at-risk areas are strongly advised to take preventative measures. This includes mosquito-bite avoidance as well as prescribed antimalarial medications, such as Malarone and doxycycline. Although these drugs aren't 100 per cent effective, they significantly reduce the risk of infection. Aside from malaria, other mosquito-borne diseases can cause fever. Dengue fever, a viral infection found in tropical and subtropical regions, leads to symptoms including high temperatures, intense headaches, body aches and rashes, which overlap with both malaria and other common viral illnesses. Most people recover with rest, fluids and paracetamol, but in some instances, dengue can become severe and require emergency hospital treatment. A vaccine is also available, but is only recommended for people who have had dengue before, as it provides good protection in this group. Any fever after international travel should be taken seriously. Don't brush it off as something you've just picked up on the plane – please see a doctor. A simple test could lead to early diagnosis and might save your life. Diarrhoea Few travel-related issues are as common – or as unwelcome – as diarrhoea. It's estimated that up to six in ten travellers will experience at least one episode during or shortly after their trip. For some, it's an unpleasant disruption mid-holiday; for others, symptoms emerge once they're back home. Traveller's diarrhoea is typically caused by eating food or drinking water containing certain microbes (bacteria, viruses, parasites) or their toxins. Identifying the more serious culprits early is essential – especially when symptoms go beyond mild discomfort. Warning signs to look out for include large volumes of watery diarrhoea, visible blood in the stool or explosive bowel movements. These may suggest a more serious infection, such as giardia, cholera or amoebic dysentery. These conditions are more common in regions with poor sanitation and are especially prevalent in parts of the tropics. Some infections may require targeted antibiotics or antiparasitic treatment. But regardless of the cause, the biggest immediate risk with any severe diarrhoea is dehydration from copious fluid loss. In serious cases, hospital admission for intravenous fluids may be necessary. The key message for returning travellers: if diarrhoea is severe, persistent or accompanied by worrying symptoms, see a doctor. What starts as a nuisance could quickly escalate without the right care. And if you have blood in your stool, make sure you seek medical advice. Jaundice If you've returned from a trip with a change in skin tone, it may not just be a suntan. A yellowish tint to the skin – or more noticeably, the whites of the eyes – could be a sign of jaundice, another finding that warrants medical attention. Jaundice is not a disease itself, but a visible sign that something may be wrong with either the liver or the blood. It results from a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that forms when red blood cells break down, and which is then processed by the liver. Several travel-related illnesses can cause jaundice. Malaria is one culprit, as is the mosquito-borne yellow fever. But another common cause is hepatitis – inflammation of the liver. Viral hepatitis comes in several forms. Hepatitis A and E are spread via contaminated food or water – common in areas with poor sanitation. In contrast, hepatitis B and C are blood-borne, transmitted through intravenous drug use, contaminated medical equipment or unprotected sex. Besides jaundice, hepatitis can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, nausea, fatigue, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. A diagnosis typically requires blood tests, both to confirm hepatitis and to rule out other causes. While many instances of hepatitis are viral, not all are, and treatment depends on the underlying cause. As we've seen, a variety of unpleasant medical conditions can affect the unlucky traveller. But we've also seen that the associated symptoms are rather nonspecific. Indeed, some can be caused by conditions that are short-lived and require only rest and recuperation to get over a rough few days. But the area between them is decidedly grey. So plan your trip carefully, be wary of high-risk activities while abroad – such as taking drugs or having unprotected sex – and stay alert to symptoms that develop during or after travel. If you feel unwell, don't ignore it. Seek medical attention promptly to identify the cause and begin appropriate treatment. Dan Baumgardt is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience at the University of Bristol.
