**A Shopping Trip Turns into a Life-Changing Journey for Sue Torkington**
When 79-year-old Sue Torkington noticed a rash on her hand during a Bristol shopping trip, she brushed it off as a mild reaction. Little did she know, it was the first sign of stage four cancer. As a seasoned nurse, Sue thought she’d recognise a serious health issue, but the rash seemed benign at first.
Reflecting on her experience, Sue shared: “I initially thought it was just a food reaction or maybe linked to a cold. But when a blood test showed I was slightly anaemic, I knew something wasn’t right.”
Following a combination of tests, including a CT scan at Prince Charles Hospital, Sue received the devastating diagnosis of stage four diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. “Hearing those words was frightening,” she recalled. The cancer had progressed rapidly, leaving Sue anxious about her survival.
Sue embarked on an aggressive treatment journey, starting with six cycles of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, the cancer returned by July 2024, leading to cutting-edge CAR-T therapy designed to reprogram her immune system. A year after discovering the rash, she had her CAR-T infusion in Cardiff.
Throughout this ordeal, Sue was uplifted by a dedicated team of healthcare professionals. “Their compassion and expertise were life-changing. I feel grateful,” she remarked. Today, Sue is in remission, describing her recovery as “textbook.”
Her story is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the remarkable impact of the NHS. Sue hopes her journey inspires others to listen to their bodies and seek medical advice when something feels off. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and cherish the healthcare heroes who dedicate their lives to saving others.