Young Woman Misdiagnosed with Cancer after Being Told She Had Conjunctivitis

Initial Misdiagnosis

A young woman, Mphango Simwaka, was initially dismissed as having conjunctivitis when she woke up with her eye bulging out of its socket. Despite being told it was a simple stye, she pressed for further tests and was later diagnosed with cancer at the age of 22.

A Devastating Diagnosis

After experiencing subtle swelling in her left eye, Mphango sought medical help but claims no tests or scans were done at the Bradford Royal Infirmary hospital. A series of misdiagnoses followed before she was finally diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, a rare form of blood cancer.

A Shocking Discovery

A mass was found in front of her brain, pressing against her optic nerve and causing her eye to bulge. Mphango underwent intense radiotherapy and chemotherapy, eventually receiving the all-clear in January 2023. However, she is left partially blind and with a drooping eye as a result of the ordeal.

Raising Awareness

Now 24, Mphango hopes to raise awareness about trusting one's instincts and pushing for answers when something doesn't feel right. She emphasizes the importance of persistence and not taking no for an answer when it comes to healthcare.