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A Glasgow mum is sharing her story this Myeloma Awareness Month to help others recognise the signs of the disease and seek medical advice sooner.
At just 48 years old, Ann Wraith had never heard of myeloma before she was diagnosed with the blood cancer in January this year. Now, after undergoing intensive treatment including a stem cell transplant, she is using her experience to raise awareness of a condition that remains largely unknown to the public.
PICTURED: Ann with husband, Allan, and daughter, Georgia.
Ann, a wife and mum to a young daughter, initially attributed her symptoms to perimenopause.
"I had what I thought was a bad cold at the end of last year that I couldn't shake off," said Ann. "I was having night sweats, getting up frequently during the night, and I was so exhausted that I was falling asleep during the day, which was completely unlike me. I also had a painful leg for months that seemed to come out of nowhere.
"I knew something wasn't right, so I asked my GP for blood tests. At no point did I think I could have cancer. I was diagnosed two weeks later."
Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops in plasma cells within the bone marrow. Symptoms can vary widely and may include persistent pain, fatigue, recurrent infections and unexplained bone problems, making diagnosis challenging.
"One of the things I wish more people knew about myeloma is that it often doesn't have one obvious symptom," said Ann. "It can be easy to dismiss what your body is trying to tell you and put symptoms down to stress, ageing or simply being busy.
"A lack of awareness can mean signs and symptoms aren't recognised early, which can delay diagnosis. Better awareness could encourage people to seek medical advice sooner and lead to earlier treatment."
PICTURED: Ann receiving treatment.
Alongside the physical effects of treatment, Ann says living with myeloma has brought significant emotional challenges.
"I wish more people understood the psychological impact of living with myeloma," she said. "Alongside the physical challenges, there is a lot of uncertainty and fear. Myeloma is currently treatable but not curable, and I'm still learning how to navigate life as a parent, wife and friend while adapting to this diagnosis."
Just three weeks ago, Ann completed a stem cell transplant, spending three weeks in hospital. Recovery has changed her outlook on life.
"I don't take ordinary moments for granted anymore. Walking outside, going for a coffee, or spending time with the people I love feels incredibly precious. Recovery is teaching me to celebrate even the smallest victories."
As she adjusted to life with cancer, Ann turned to social media to document her experience and connect with others.
"When I was first diagnosed, I felt scared and overwhelmed. I found myself looking for real people's experiences to help me understand what I was facing. I wanted to create something that I wish I'd been able to find at the start.
"My hope is that by sharing my story openly and honestly, I can help others recognise symptoms, understand what treatment can involve and feel less alone."
Her TikTok videos have attracted a supportive community of people affected by cancer.
"The response has been incredibly supportive. Knowing that my story has helped some people feel less alone has made it worthwhile. I feel like we're building a community of love and support."
Throughout her treatment, Ann has received support from Beatson Cancer Charity, including services at the Wellbeing Centre and the Calman Centre.
"The charity created a sense of community at a time when I felt isolated and alone," she said. "Whether it was a chat over tea and cake during treatment or the support available both in hospital and in the community, they made an incredibly challenging time feel a little more manageable.
"The Wellbeing Centre became such an important part of my inpatient stay. My daughter couldn't visit me on the ward because of her age, but we were welcomed there with open arms. We played games, listened to music and spent time together in a space that felt separate from the hospital environment. It made a difficult and uncertain time much easier for both of us."
This Myeloma Awareness Month, Ann hopes her story will encourage others to listen to their bodies and seek help if something doesn't feel right.
"Trust your instincts and don't ignore symptoms that don't feel normal for you," she said. "I also want people to know that there is hope. There is a strong community of healthcare professionals, charities, patients and families who understand what you're going through and are there to support you.
"You don't have to face it alone."
PICTURED: Georgia and Allan took part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk in aid of BCC.
A spokesperson from Beatson Cancer Charity, said:
"Ann's willingness to share her story will help shine a light on a cancer that many people know very little about. Raising awareness of myeloma and its symptoms is vital, as earlier diagnosis can make a significant difference to treatment options and outcomes.
"We're incredibly grateful to Ann for speaking so openly about her diagnosis and treatment. Stories like hers help others feel less isolated and remind people that support is available throughout treatment and beyond."
