A courageous woman, Zoe Gardner-Lawson, has come forward to share her harrowing experience with stage 4 cancer, exposing the shocking oversights in her medical care. Despite being initially misdiagnosed with a urinary tract infection, Zoe’s persistence ultimately led to the discovery of a massive tumor in her colon.
Zoe’s ordeal began in August 2024, when she suddenly developed a dull ache in her lower back. Her general practitioner prescribed antibiotics over the phone, but the discomfort persisted. Despite returning to her doctor multiple times, Zoe was repeatedly misdiagnosed, and her condition continued to deteriorate. It wasn’t until she demanded a full-body CT scan that the true extent of her illness was revealed.
The scan showed a massive tumor in Zoe’s colon, which had perforated and spread to her liver, peritoneum, and stomach lymph nodes. The tumor was estimated to be around five centimeters in size, and specialists believed it may have been growing for up to four years. Zoe underwent emergency surgery to remove the tumor, but her prognosis remains uncertain.
Zoe’s experience has highlighted the need for greater awareness and earlier detection of colon cancer. She is now advocating for the minimum age for colon cancer screenings to be lowered to at least 30 years old. Zoe believes that if her illness had been detected earlier, it would have been much easier to treat.
As Zoe continues her brave battle with cancer, she is also facing significant financial challenges. To help alleviate these concerns, she has set up a GoFundMe page to fund her alternative treatment. Zoe’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of persistence and self-advocacy in the face of medical uncertainty.
The National Health Service (NHS) lists the primary symptoms of colon cancer as changes in bowel movements, blood in the feces, stomach pain, and unexplained weight loss. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line is also available for confidential support and guidance.
