'Find the path to the new you'

A keen runner and weightlighter, Melinda thought she had pulled a muscle on her shoulder. She held off going to see her GP until things were a lot worse and also tried a chiropractor, hoping this would make a difference. 

But nothing was improving, and she then developed pain in her back as well as a numbness that moved up her body. By the time she went back to see a GP, she could barely move, so was referred to A&E where CT and MRI scans revealed a tumour on her spine. 

Melinda was transferred immediately to neurosurgery where an operation was carried out to remove the tumour, which was then biopsied. She was told she had stage 4 diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. 

In the podcast Melinda explains having to tell her family, including her children, about her cancer and the tremendous support they provided. Now 4 years in remission, she reflects on how her diagnosis has changed her outlook on life and having to come to terms with the new Melinda.

Listen to Melinda's story or check out our other podcasts.