Steph Washington, a 38-year-old mother of three from Brierley Hill in the West Midlands, has shared her harrowing experience of battling cervical cancer after facing a significant delay in diagnosis due to dismissed symptoms. For over a year, Washington encountered ongoing pain and a series of troubling health issues, only to be told by medical professionals that her symptoms were likely the result of a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Beginning in April 2022, Washington started experiencing a range of classic cervical cancer symptoms, including persistent pelvic and lower back pain, irregular periods, abnormal vaginal bleeding, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Despite these alarming signs, Washington was never offered a smear test and often received tre... atments for bacterial vaginosis and other suspected infections. Her repeated visits to her general practitioner and multiple emergency hospital visits did not lead to the appropriate examinations or tests that could have unveiled a more serious underlying condition.
By August 2023, after enduring a prolonged period of discomfort and distress, Washington received an unexpected and devastating diagnosis of stage four terminal cervical cancer through a biopsy. The medical centre she frequented, Greens Health Centre in Dudley, later acknowledged medical negligence, admitting that had she received timely and appropriate care, her condition might have been treated earlier and possibly cured.
Washington, now reliant on her parents for around-the-clock support and grappling with the realities of her disease, expressed her frustration and anger at the treatment she received, stating, "I'm so angry and frustrated. My life has been completely turned upside down, I can no longer look after my two younger children." She elaborated on the profound impact of her condition, emphasising the delay in diagnosis and the missed opportunity for a smear test at the onset of her symptoms might have altered her trajectory.
In light of her circumstances, Washington has been vocal about the need for increased awareness and accessibility to cervical screening, calling for a push towards "DIY home cervical screening tests on the NHS." Speaking to the Mirror, she explained her belief that such measures could significantly improve the lives of women and help detect issues earlier, potentially saving lives.
Over the last year, Washington's health has deteriorated even further. She has undergone chemotherapy and radiotherapy but continues to experience intense pain, has lost considerable weight, and sees her family life significantly affected; two of her children now live with their father.
In hopes of improving her challenging situation, Washington is scheduled for a complicated exenteration surgery that could extend her life expectancy if successful. Rajni Kandola, a senior solicitor at Talbots Law representing Washington, described her as resilient, praising her strength during such a tumultuous period while advocating for necessary improvements in patient care to ensure that others do not endure similar experiences.
Greens Health Centre has acknowledged their liability but has not provided further comments in response to requests regarding Washington’s situation and the necessary changes to prevent future oversights.
Source: Noah Wire Services