A woman initially mistook her symptoms for haemorrhoids, only to discover a life-threatening condition. Jane Locke, 66, from New Milton, Hampshire, believed she had piles in January 2021, a common issue in the UK. However, a few months later, a medical examination revealed she had rectal cancer.
Similar to Married At First Sight star Mel Schilling, Jane’s symptoms initially revolved around changes in her bathroom habits. Mel recently shared devastating news with fans that her cancer is now terminal, following a colon cancer diagnosis in December 2023. She disclosed on Instagram that the cancer had spread to her brain and lungs.
Mel’s cancer journey began while filming MAFS in Australia, where she experienced severe stomach cramps. Despite initial misdiagnoses, she was eventually diagnosed with colon cancer upon returning to the UK.
After being diagnosed, Jane underwent surgery to remove a lemon-sized tumor named Terry. However, a year later, scans revealed her cancer had metastasized to her lungs. She underwent chemotherapy and was considered for a new medical trial.
Sadly, Mel experienced new symptoms, including severe headaches, over the Christmas period. Medical professionals informed her that her cancer had spread to her brain, leading to a halt in treatment options.
Jane’s cancer diagnosis unfolded similarly, starting with suspicions of piles in January 2021. By July, she consulted her GP due to persistent symptoms. A subsequent examination revealed rectal cancer, prompting immediate medical attention.
Following a series of consultations and tests, Jane learned she had stage one rectal cancer in September. She commenced a rigorous treatment regimen involving chemotherapy and radiotherapy for six weeks, which concluded in December 2021.
After enduring side effects and an allergic reaction during treatment, Jane’s condition stabilized, and she eventually received news of being cancer-free in August 2022. She emphasized the importance of proactive healthcare and maintaining a positive outlook during her recovery.
While Jane’s story ended with a successful recovery, Mel continues to battle terminal cancer. Despite her difficult prognosis, Mel remains resilient and encourages others to seek medical advice promptly if they suspect health issues.