**Mum’s Cancer Journey: Trust Your Instincts**
20 years ago, Sharon Moreby noticed a curious white, spider web-like patch on her tongue. It seemed harmless, but little did she know, it would lead to a harrowing medical journey. The mum-of-four consistently felt dismissed by doctors who attributed the patch to non-cancerous dysplasia. After eight biopsies, laser treatment, and even wearing braces to stop supposedly biting her tongue, Sharon’s symptoms worsened. Earaches, jaw pain, trouble swallowing, and a mysterious lump in her neck were still chalked up to minor issues or menopause.
It wasn’t until a recent biopsy in 2023 that the true culprit was revealed—an aggressive HPV-related tongue cancer. Fast forward a gruelling nine-and-a-half-hour surgery, and Sharon had to have half her tongue removed, followed by chemo and radiotherapy because the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes. Thankfully, she’s now in remission and recovering after a tongue reconstruction.
Sharon, living in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, believes she was failed by medical professionals for years and wants her story to be a lesson for others: always trust your instincts. She shares her experience so others might persist if they feel something’s not right with their health. “If I’d followed the advice I received, I wouldn’t be here today,” she reflects.
She’s encouraging everyone to heed their instincts and continue pushing for answers, reminding us that persistence can save lives. 💪
#HealthAwareness #CancerSurvivor #TrustYourGut