Imagine dismissing a persistent cough and fatigue as just "man flu." That's exactly what Clint Nield did, a decision that nearly cost him his life. His story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of paying attention to our bodies and seeking medical attention when something doesn't feel right.
Clint, a father of one from Burton-upon-Trent, Staffs., initially attributed his symptoms to the change of season and the prevalence of colds and flu. As someone who works in retail, he was used to being exposed to various illnesses. However, what he initially dismissed as a minor ailment turned out to be something far more sinister: aggressive blood cancer.
Like many men, Clint admits to brushing off his symptoms, perhaps influenced by the stereotype of men exaggerating their ailments. He thought he just needed some rest and relaxation to get back to work. However, his condition steadily worsened, reaching a point where he was completely drained of energy.
His wife, Joanne, ultimately intervened and took him to the emergency room when his health rapidly deteriorated. It was there, after a series of tests at a Staffordshire hospital, that Clint received the life-altering diagnosis: acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a deadly form of cancer.
AML is a fast-growing, aggressive cancer that requires immediate treatment. Clint's white blood cell count was alarmingly high, far exceeding the normal range. The news was devastating, and Clint was understandably terrified.
Doctors told Clint that had he waited any longer, he wouldn't have survived until Christmas. He immediately started chemotherapy at Royal Derby Hospital, facing brutal side effects like rapid weight loss and constant sickness. At one point, he even fainted and fractured his ankle, leaving him bedridden for two weeks.
During his treatment, Clint faced numerous complications, including pneumonia and sepsis, landing him in the intensive care unit. He narrowly escaped death, highlighting the severity of his condition and the urgency of his treatment.
Against all odds, Clint completed his final round of chemotherapy in April and is now in remission. He continues to take oral chemotherapy tablets and undergoes regular bone marrow biopsies. His journey has been a rollercoaster, impacting his life in profound ways.
Clint's experience underscores the importance of early detection. He urges everyone not to ignore symptoms, emphasizing that cancer can strike anyone, regardless of age or gender. He believes that men, in particular, are prone to dismissing symptoms, a mistake he nearly paid for with his life.
Life since his diagnosis has been a "yo-yo" for Clint. He faces limitations in his physical abilities and his overall health has been impacted by the treatment and recovery process. The uncertainty of a potential relapse also casts a shadow over his future plans.
The ordeal has been incredibly difficult for Clint's family, especially his wife, Joanne, and his daughter, Cora, who have been his unwavering support system. He now focuses on living each day as a blessing and avoids looking too far into the future.
Despite the challenges, Clint has dreams for the future: becoming a homeowner, returning to work, and regaining his full fitness. For now, he's taking it one day at a time, grateful for each moment and determined to make the most of his second chance.
His story is being shared as part of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, in support of the #SpotLeukaemia campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the disease and its symptoms. Charities like Leukaemia UK and Leukaemia Care are working to educate the public and improve outcomes for those affected.
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a type of blood cancer that affects the white blood cells, which are crucial for the immune system. It's a rare and aggressive disease that requires urgent treatment.
The exact causes of AML are not fully understood, and in most cases, it cannot be prevented. However, certain factors, such as previous chemotherapy, exposure to radiation, and smoking, may increase the risk. It is crucial to note that these are just potential risk factors and do not guarantee the development of AML.
In the UK, approximately 3,100 people are diagnosed with AML each year, and sadly, around 2,700 people die from the disease annually. This highlights the need for increased awareness, early detection, and improved treatments.
AML is characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow, which interferes with the production of healthy blood cells. This can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, bruising, unusual bleeding, and frequent infections.
The standard treatment for AML typically involves chemotherapy, which aims to kill the cancerous cells. In some cases, a bone marrow transplant may also be necessary to replace the damaged bone marrow with healthy cells.
Unfortunately, the survival rate for AML is relatively low, with only about a third of patients surviving for one year or more after diagnosis. However, advancements in treatment are continuously being made, offering hope for improved outcomes in the future.
Fiona Hazell, chief executive of Leukaemia UK, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of leukaemia, as early diagnosis can significantly improve the chances of survival. She encourages anyone experiencing concerning symptoms to consult their doctor for a full blood count test.
Colin Dyer, chief executive of Leukaemia Care, highlights that AML can affect anyone, at any age, and that the signs are often subtle and easily missed. He urges individuals to be proactive in seeking medical attention if they notice any unusual or persistent symptoms.
The most common symptoms of leukaemia, according to Leukaemia UK, include extreme tiredness (fatigue), unexplained bruising, unusual bleeding (such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums), and repeated infections. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor promptly.