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On World Ovarian Cancer Day (8 May), Beatson Cancer Charity is sharing the powerful story of Danielle Quinn – a 40-year old from the Southside of Glasgow.
Danielle, a Finance Manager who also runs a social media content creation business, was diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer just days before Christmas 2022.
Danielle first noticed something was wrong in October 2022 when she began experiencing severe abdominal pain and bloating that wouldn’t go away. Despite multiple GP visits, her symptoms were initially dismissed as IBS or gastroenteritis.
“I knew something wasn’t right – I couldn’t eat or sleep, and I was in constant pain,” she said. “Eventually I saw a doctor who recognised the seriousness of my symptoms and sent me for further tests.”
Following several hospital visits and a CT scan, Danielle was admitted to hospital where doctors drained six litres of fluid from her abdomen. What followed was a complex journey to diagnosis, involving weeks of scans, hospital stays, and consultations. Eventually, surgeons carried out an extensive operation – what was meant to be a hysterectomy turned into a seven-hour procedure where Danielle had ten organs removed after cancer cells were found across her abdomen.
“At 39, being told I would never have children and waking up from surgery having lost 10 organs was devastating,” Danielle said. “I had always been fit and healthy – I’d never even been in hospital before.”
Danielle was diagnosed with stage 3 low-grade serous carcinoma, a rare form of ovarian cancer. She opted for hormone therapy over chemotherapy initially but unfortunately, her cancer returned in October 2024.
Despite the challenges of treatment, including the effects of surgical menopause, Danielle remains determined to raise awareness and speak openly about the physical and emotional toll cancer has had on her life.
“Going through sudden menopause after surgery has its own set of difficulties,” Danielle explained. “You’re thrown into it with no warning, and because of my cancer, I can’t take HRT to help manage the symptoms. It’s something we don’t talk about enough – I want to change that.”
Danielle credits The Beatson for making the hardest days feel a little lighter.
“The Beatson means everything to me. Hospitals can be overwhelming, but the care and compassion from everyone at The Beatson makes it feel like home. They go above and beyond to make you feel supported, no matter what you’re facing.”
A spokesperson from Beatson Cancer Charity said: “At Beatson Cancer Charity, we’re committed to supporting everyone affected by cancer, including those facing less common diagnoses like ovarian cancer. We fund vital services, therapies and research that help improve treatment and care for patients across Scotland. Stories like Danielle’s highlight just how important it is to raise awareness and ensure people know support is available. On World Ovarian Cancer Day, we’re proud to stand alongside patients and families, working to make sure no one faces cancer alone.”
Danielle continues to share her experience on social media to support and connect with others going through similar challenges.
