I Thought My Symptoms Were Diabetes – Then I Was Told I Was Going to Die
A mother’s journey from a diabetes scare to a cancer diagnosis reveals her fight for life
Wolverhampton, UK, Multiple Myeloma, Cancer, Jodie Hill, Alfie
Wolverhampton: Jodie Hill, a single mom, thought she was dealing with diabetes symptoms. But in March 2021, she found out it was much worse—multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer. She was devastated.
Initially, Jodie thought her pain was just a pulled muscle. But as her symptoms worsened, she learned she had lesions in her spine and skull. By August 2023, after trying several treatments, doctors told her she had just two to three months to live. But Jodie wasn’t ready to give up.
She decided to try a new treatment that had a slim chance of success. Miraculously, it worked, and she’s been in remission since October 2023. Jodie is now focused on making memories with her son, Alfie, who turns 14 soon.
Jodie’s journey began in October 2020 when she woke up with severe chest pains. After a trip to A&E, doctors initially thought it was a muscle strain. But further tests revealed she was severely anemic and had symptoms resembling diabetes.
As her health declined, she lost weight and struggled with daily tasks. When her left eye started bulging, she sought help again, leading to her cancer diagnosis. The news hit her hard, but she was determined to fight for her son.
Over the next two years, Jodie underwent various treatments, including chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant. Unfortunately, her cancer was aggressive and didn’t respond well. By 2023, she was told they were running out of options.
When doctors suggested another stem cell transplant, Jodie was shocked to hear she might only have months to live. Fearing she wouldn’t see her son’s birthday, she started planning early celebrations.
Then came a glimmer of hope with a new treatment option. Jodie took the leap and, against the odds, found herself in remission just a month later. She’s grateful for the support from her family and organizations like Myeloma UK.
Despite ongoing challenges, Jodie remains optimistic. She looks forward to spending time with Alfie and celebrating family milestones. She knows there will be tough days, but she’s determined to keep fighting.
Jodie emphasizes the need for more research funding for treatments. She’s aware that her current treatment won’t last forever, and she’s advocating for more support for Myeloma UK.
For anyone facing similar battles, Jodie’s story is a testament to resilience and hope. She’s living proof that even in the darkest times, there’s a chance for light.