Young Woman’s Fight Against Rare Cancer After Dismissive Diagnosis

A young woman in the UK has shared her harrowing experience of being initially dismissed by doctors, only to later discover that her symptoms were indicative of a rare form of cancer. Bella Bayliss, 25, from Gloucester, faced significant health challenges that culminated in a diagnosis of a Gastro-Intestinal Stromal Tumour (GIST), a type of sarcoma found in the digestive system.

After experiencing severe stomach bloating, breathlessness, and tingling sensations in her limbs, Bayliss sought medical help at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital. Despite her distress, she was told her symptoms were simply “women’s problems.” This response left her feeling frustrated and concerned, especially as she struggled to eat and manage daily activities.

Despite repeated visits to the hospital, Bayliss’s symptoms persisted. She recalled feeling extremely anaemic, which prompted her to return to the hospital. Following her insistence on further investigation, an endoscopy was conducted and a 6cm tumour was discovered in her stomach in early 2017.

In her own words, Bayliss expressed her disbelief at the initial oversight: “I knew it wasn’t that. I was getting really breathless doing normal activities, and I had constant stomach pains.”

Facing the Reality of Cancer

Following her diagnosis, Bayliss underwent surgery to remove the tumour and approximately 70% of her stomach. For almost six years, she managed her health condition, but in October 2022, she faced the devastating news that her cancer had returned. The emotional toll of this revelation was significant, as she stated, “After five years you think it’s a part of your life you can put behind you. I was very shocked, my family and I were devastated.”

The latest surgery has left her with dietary restrictions, particularly concerning dairy and larger meals, which has affected her confidence. Bayliss highlighted that there is currently no medication available for her cancer, and surgery remains the only option for treatment.

Bayliss’s case underscores the challenges faced by patients with rare conditions. GISTs are complex and often require a high degree of clinical suspicion for diagnosis. The NHS notes that GISTs are frequently found in the stomach but can occur in other parts of the digestive system as well.

Addressing Medical Oversight

A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust expressed regret over Bayliss’s experience, stating, “We are very sorry to hear that Miss Bayliss’s cancer has returned, and we understand how distressing this must be for her and her family.” The spokesperson acknowledged the shortcomings in the initial diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigation in similar cases.

Through her story, Bayliss aims to raise awareness about GISTs and encourage others to advocate for their health. Her journey highlights the necessity of listening to one’s body and pursuing further medical evaluation when symptoms persist. As she continues her battle against cancer, Bella Bayliss serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and vigilance in healthcare.