Doctors told a woman to lose weight to treat her chronic fatigue. However, she discovered that her condition was caused by an ovarian cancerous tumor of melon size.
Hannah Catton, 24, from Faversham, Kent, visited a doctor after suffering from stomach bloating and repeated urinary infections, but was told she was ‘fine’ and it was probably stress related and that she should slim down.
The veterinary nurse moved to Melbourne, Australia in 2019 before becoming increasingly concerned about her health.
She undergoing life-saving chemotherapy in Australia and is unable to be joined by her family because of Covid travel restrictions.
Hannah Catton, 24, (pictured), who lives in Melbourne, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer after initially being told by doctors that her symptoms were stress-related
After her doctor had assured her she was OK, the drama began when she suffered severe back pains while horse-riding in October 2013.
Later, after she was taken to Melbourne Mercy Hospital for Women by surgeons who removed a 20cm tumor from her ovaries, she was diagnosed later with ovarian cancer.
She said, “I was angry because I’d been suffering from chronic urinary tract infections for over 2 years and had taken so many anti-biotics to treat it.”
“For almost a whole year I went to various doctors looking for a GP that would hear me tell them about my irregular periods and other problems.
“They all replied, “You are stressed. It’s okay, take your time and lose weight.”
“I suffered from chronic fatigue, period pain, UTI symptoms and swelling. Although I was aware that something was amiss, no doctor seemed to be concerned.
Hannah claimed that doctors were not concerned about her suffering from period pains, chronic fatigue, UTI symptoms, and bloating. Hannah, before becoming ill
Hannah studied veterinary science at Canterbury College and wanted to start a new life in Australia. However, she still loved coming home each year to see her Faversham family.
She said, “Unfortunately, Covid put a wrench in my works, and then I received this horrible diagnosis in October last Year.”
“The last time that I saw my brother and parents was three years ago when they said goodbye at the airport. It’s been very difficult for us all.
Hannah was able to recover despite the fact that she had to undergo emergency surgery for the tumor.
She explained that the cancerous tumor was so large and had already ruptured, she is now receiving chemotherapy.
“But my prognosis has been good for me because so many people in my situation have not.”
Hannah hopes Hannah’s story will inspire other women, even if the GP agrees with her.
“I’ve had amazing support from my Australian friends, Kyall my boyfriend, and my many Aussie friends who have been an incredible help.
“It’s extremely difficult for them because they all want to jump on a airplane to be with us but that’s not permitted.
As her medical insurance covers the cost of treatment, her friends rallied together to raise money for her daily expenses.
Hannah now has chemotherapy. Hannah will be able to fully recover from emergency surgery for the removal of her ruptured tumor (pictured).
Hannah said her friends have been supportive, but it’s ‘incredibly tough’ for those back home in Faversham because they aren’t allowed to visit. Pictured: Hannah and her parents, before she fell ill.
Hannah indicated that her plans include an emotional reunion back in home after she recovers from chemotherapy. Hannah is undergoing chemotherapy
Hazel Frost, one of Hazel’s best friends, is hosting an online quiz-night on Wednesday 26 January.
In Australia, friends have also set up a GoFundMe page which has already raised more than $3,000 (£1,589) from supporters.
Hannah said, “Everyone has been incredible in their support of me for which I’m so grateful.”
“And when I’m well enough, we’ll fly home for what will be an emotional reunion.