Katie Pritchard, a mother-of-two from Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, tragically passed away in June after a 17-month battle with cervical cancer. Her journey began when she discovered a lump and sought medical advice. However, healthcare professionals initially dismissed her symptoms as side-effects from the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine or a sexually transmitted infection. Dissatisfied with this response, Katie took matters into her own hands and sought a second opinion from a gynaecologist. It was then that she received her devastating diagnosis.
Katie’s husband, Tom, described her loss as leaving an “irreplaceable” void, grieving the fact that he lost his “best friend and mother to my two boys” at only 37 years old. Despite the heartbreak, Katie maintained a positive outlook and even got engaged to Tom on the day of her terminal diagnosis. In February, they exchanged vows surrounded by immediate family members. They also launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £200,000 for a potentially life-prolonging drug called pembrolizumab, which is not available through the NHS. Unfortunately, the drug company pulled out on the eve of her treatment.
Tom emphasized the overwhelming support they received from friends, family, and strangers alike during their difficult journey. He acknowledged the financial assistance but also highlighted the emotional comfort it brought. The past 18 months had been challenging, especially in regards to healthcare options and emotional turmoil. While their wedding day wasn’t as envisioned, it was still perfect and provided a moment of respite from the impact of cancer on their lives.
Ultimately, Katie’s condition worsened rapidly, leaving them with limited options. She moved in with her parents to manage her pain more effectively, while Tom cared for their children. Eventually, she was admitted to Warwick Myton Hospice, where her pain, mobility issues, and fatigue became daily struggles. However, she was still able to enjoy moments with her loved ones, including visits, parties, outings, and precious time with her children. She passed away on June 17, surrounded by family.
Katie’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of living life to the fullest and cherishing every moment. Despite the adversity she faced, she implored others to embrace life’s adventures and live in the present. Cervical cancer, the disease that took Katie’s life, is characterized by symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pain during sex, unusual discharge, and pelvic pain. It can be caused by factors such as age, HPV infection, smoking, contraceptive pill use, childbirth, and a family history of cervical or other related cancers.
Source: Cancer Research UK
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