Katie Baber, a 22-year-old from Merthyr Tydfil, experienced a life-altering journey after being misdiagnosed with glandular fever at the age of 17. Initially treated with painkillers, her symptoms escalated, leading to a devastating diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma in August 2020. This rare type of cancer affects the lymphatic system and requires immediate treatment.
Katie first noticed signs of illness in February 2020 when she developed swollen glands. After her general practitioner attributed her symptoms to glandular fever, she was prescribed pain relief. However, her health deteriorated further, prompting a visit to the Accident and Emergency department later that summer. A biopsy confirmed her condition as stage 2A lymphoma, a shock that she received over the phone due to Covid-19 restrictions.
“It was a huge shock,” Katie reflected. “Apart from a swollen neck, I didn’t have any of the typical symptoms like night sweats or itchy skin.” Despite the emotional toll, she was eager to start treatment and navigate this unexpected challenge.
Beginning treatment on October 20, 2020, Katie faced the added difficulty of undergoing chemotherapy alone, as visitor restrictions limited her family’s presence. “Being on my own during treatment was incredibly tough,” she shared. “My mam and uncle waited in the concourse of Heath Hospital while I underwent procedures.” She found solace in the support of the Teenage Cancer Trust unit, where she developed close bonds with the medical staff.
Katie’s treatment was not without complications. In November 2020, she developed sepsis, but fortunately, she recovered and completed her chemotherapy just a week before her 18th birthday in January 2021. “I could only celebrate with my mam on my actual birthday and had to see friends and family through the living room window due to the infection risk,” she noted. Later celebrations were held when Covid-19 restrictions eased.
Now cancer-free, Katie is pursuing her dream of becoming a primary school teacher at Cardiff Metropolitan University. “It’s taken me until this year to feel physically and emotionally ready to start my degree,” she stated. “I’ve always wanted to be a teacher, and I’m loving it so far.”
Katie is passionately supporting the Stand Up To Cancer campaign in Wales, understanding firsthand the importance of research and funding in cancer care. “I’m so grateful for the treatment I received,” she said. “Without research, I wouldn’t be here today.”
In Wales, approximately 20,200 individuals are diagnosed with cancer each year, with projections indicating that by 2040, someone in the UK will receive a cancer diagnosis every two minutes. “Behind every alarming statistic is someone like me,” Katie remarked. “Cancer can affect anyone’s life, at any time, so we really have no choice other than to unite against it.”
Katie urges the public to participate in fundraising efforts for cancer research. The Sweat Every Day in November Challenge invites individuals to commit to 30 minutes of exercise each day throughout the month, regardless of their preferred activity.
“Success stories like mine show that there is hope,” she encouraged. “Every action, big or small, could make a difference in beating this devastating disease.”
Since its inception in the UK in 2012, Stand Up To Cancer has raised over £113 million, funding 73 clinical trials and benefiting more than 13,000 cancer patients. According to Ruth Amies, a spokesperson for Cancer Research UK in Wales, ongoing support is crucial for advancing treatments and enhancing survival rates. “Almost one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime,” she warned. “That’s why we’re asking everyone to Stand Up To Cancer, whether they donate, fundraise, or take on our challenge.”
Katie Baber’s journey highlights the critical role of awareness and research in combating cancer, inspiring many to take action in the fight against this widespread disease.
