{"id":231133,"date":"2025-07-02T05:00:32","date_gmt":"2025-07-02T05:00:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/231133\/"},"modified":"2025-07-02T05:00:32","modified_gmt":"2025-07-02T05:00:32","slug":"woman-diagnosed-with-cancer-after-gp-tells-her-there-is-nothing-wrong-with-you","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/231133\/","title":{"rendered":"Woman diagnosed with cancer after GP tells her ‘there is nothing wrong with you’"},"content":{"rendered":"

Retired NHS worker Carol Stirrop initially thought she had a stomach bug\"CarolCarol Stirrop<\/p>\n

A woman has shared how her cancer symptoms were initially dismissed by a GP who reportedly told her ‘there is nothing seriously wrong with you.’<\/p>\n

Carol Stirrop, a retired NHS<\/a> secretary, first began to feel unwell in early 2023 but initially brushed off her symptoms of fatigue and diarrhea as a stomach bug.<\/p>\n

However, the 78-year-old lost nearly two stone and so sought out medical advice.<\/p>\n

READ MORE: ‘Menace’ crashed head-on into pensioner as he led police on hour-long chase<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

“I was losing weight at an alarming rate,\u201d Carol recalls. \u201cNearly two stone disappeared and I felt drained in a way rest simply couldn\u2019t fix.\u201d<\/p>\n

Despite multiple visits to her GP, Carol’s concerns were initially brushed aside. At one point, she was reportedly told ‘you are really well, there is nothing seriously wrong with you.’<\/p>\n

\"CarolCarol Stirrop<\/p>\n

But her instincts told her otherwise and determined not to be ignored, Carol sought a second opinion. She was then sent for blood work, scans and eventually given the devastating diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.<\/p>\n

The disease is notoriously difficult to diagnose early and is often diagnosed at advanced stages.<\/p>\n

Fortunately for Carol, the cancer had not yet spread to her liver, making surgery an option. In September 2023, she underwent the major Whipple’s procedure at Queen Elizabeth Hospital<\/a> in Birmingham<\/a> to remove the tumour.<\/p>\n

\u201cI woke up filled with gratitude for the chance at a future, but recovery was tough,\u201d Carol, from Birmingham, said.<\/p>\n

She added: \u201cThe pain, fatigue and emotional toll were enormous, but I focused on the positives and the support around me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Following the operation, Carol began chemotherapy with twelve cycles planned. However, side effects like tingling in her hands and feet, persistent nausea and overwhelming weakness meant she completed nine cycles.<\/p>\n

Adding to her challenges was an unexpected diagnosis of Type 3c diabetes, a form of diabetes linked to pancreatic disease which few people are aware of.<\/p>\n

Managing fluctuating blood sugar levels became part of her daily routine but in a rare turn of fortune, Carol\u2019s diabetes later resolved. She continues to monitor her glucose levels under medical advice.<\/p>\n

Now two years cancer free, Carol reflects on her experience as a lesson in self advocacy.<\/p>\n

She said: “I knew something wasn\u2019t right, even when I was told otherwise.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I hadn\u2019t trusted my instincts and pushed for more tests, I might not be here today.\u201d<\/p>\n

She credits the NHS team from surgeons to nurses, oncologists and support staff for their dedication and compassion. \u201cOnce I was referred on, the care was incredible,” she said.<\/p>\n

“They saved my life.\u201d Carol also highlights the unwavering support from her husband, family, friends and fellow survivors as crucial in helping her through the darkest times.<\/p>\n

While lingering side effects remain, particularly the tingling sensation in her fingers and toes, Carol refuses to let them overshadow her gratitude for life.<\/p>\n

She added: \u201cEach day is precious now. I love sitting in the garden with a cup of coffee, enjoying time with my family and appreciating the small moments.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pancreatic cancer symptoms can include:<\/strong><\/p>\n