Cork Woman Advocates for Mindful Listening to Your Body for Enhanced Well-being

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From shoulder Pain to Survival: Megan’s Battle with Leukemia and the Importance of Early Detection

By Archyde News staff

Published: March 22, 2025

Megan Dalton Rafferty, a vibrant 30-year-old, faced a daunting health crisis when a seemingly minor shoulder ache led to a diagnosis of Acute lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Her journey,marked by resilience and a commitment to advocacy,underscores the critical need for early cancer detection and awareness of potential complications like sepsis.Her story also highlights the importance of blood and bone marrow donation, and the vital role of support networks.While Megan’s experiences took place in Ireland, her message resonates deeply with American audiences, underscoring global healthcare challenges and the shared human experience of battling cancer.

The Unforeseen Diagnosis

What began as a nagging pain in her shoulder blade quickly escalated into a life-altering ordeal for Megan Dalton Rafferty. Initially dismissing the ache consequently of an awkward sleeping position, Megan soon realized the pain was persistent and unresponsive to typical remedies. “A week later it was still there and nothing I did would get rid of it,” recalled Megan, then 30.

As the pain intensified, it began to disrupt her sleep, prompting her to seek medical attention. The prescribed medication, however, came with debilitating side effects.”I’m nearly six foot tall and my legs would randomly go dead and I’d almost be dragging them around after me,” Megan explained. “My concentration was also hit.I was working as a social-media manager and I’d find myself just staring into space, and one of the weirdest things of all was that my eyes started retaining fluid and swelled, and so with the bags under my eyes from not sleeping, it looked like I had been punched.”

Despite an initial MRI scan coming back clear, Megan’s intuition told her something was seriously wrong. “I had an MRI scan and I was disappointed when it came back clear as I knew something wasn’t right,and I needed to know what it was. It constantly felt like there was a gremlin in my shoulder,” she said.

a blood test revealed the unexpected truth: B-Cell ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia), a type of blood cancer. This form of cancer affects the blood and bone marrow. According to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, approximately 6,660 new cases of ALL are diagnosed in the United States each year. While ALL can affect individuals of all ages, it is most commonly diagnosed in children.

“I remember being called to CUH after the blood test wich had showed up low red and white cells, and my legs were going from under me, and I had problems breathing,” Megan recounts. “Everything was starting to get worse at that stage. It took me 15 minutes to walk a corridor that should have taken one minute.” The diagnosis,while shocking,brought a sense of relief in finally identifying the source of her suffering. “A bone marrow biopsy was taken that day in CUH and the word leukemia was mentioned,which was something I hadn’t been expecting. But when the diagnosis was confirmed later that day, I honestly felt relief as I finally had my answer,” she explained. “I was told to pack a bag and that my first treatment was the following day.”

The Rigors of Treatment and Isolation

megan’s treatment journey began at the end of 2021, involving intense chemotherapy and extended periods of isolation. The treatment regime consisted of spending four weeks in isolation in CUH (Cork University Hospital), followed by a few days at home, a cycle that repeated for 10 months, pushing her both physically and mentally.

“My doctors didn’t mince their words and said that the treatment was going to be hard, but it’s not like I thought it was ever going to be a walk in the park,” Megan recalled with candidness.

While the isolation was challenging, Megan found ways to cope. “There were days when my body felt fine and my mind was half asleep and others when it was the opposite, but in some ways I was lucky as I’m an introvert and can entertain myself untill the cows come home,” she said. To pass the time, she relied on technology and creative outlets. “I had all my technology and when I was sick of screens, I turned to adult colouring books. It was a kind of mindfulness.”

The COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of complexity to her treatment. “This was all happening during covid and my mum was allowed in for the occasional short visit. She was also visiting my grandmother in a nursing home so was vigilant with her covid tests.”

Sepsis and Setbacks

In April 2022, megan faced a life-threatening complication: sepsis. “I had mottled skin, fever, my whole body was shaking for 10 days, four of which were in ICU. It was my gall bladder that was trying to kill me!” she explained. “That was the cause so I had that removed and got to have a two week ‘holiday’ at home to heal and was back for that May, June and July for more treatment.”

Sepsis, a possibly deadly condition caused by the body’s overwhelming response to an infection, is a meaningful concern for immunocompromised patients like those undergoing cancer treatment. According to the CDC, at least 1.7 million adults in america develop sepsis each year, and nearly 350,000 adults who die with sepsis. Recognizing the signs of sepsis, such as fever, shaking chills, and rapid breathing, is crucial for timely intervention.

Just as Megan was regaining her footing after finishing treatment in August 2022 and returning to her job, another setback occurred. “at that stage, I was on a maintenance stage of treatment with a lumbar puncture every three months. The one taken in January, 2023, showed leukaemia cells. Just when I had gotten used to my freedom!” she said.

Immunotherapy and Bone Marrow Transplant

the re-emergence of leukemia cells necessitated further treatment. Megan underwent immunotherapy, a type of cancer treatment that helps the body’s immune system fight the disease. “I was put on immunotherapy which involved wearing what looked like a bum bag which contained a pouch with my medication,feeding into my arm,” she explained. “I’d go down to Limerick on Sunday, come back on Tuesday to have the bag changed, return to Limerick on Wednesday morning and back to Cork on friday. that continued throughout February and March.”

in May 2023,Megan underwent a bone marrow transplant,a procedure that replaces damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy bone marrow stem cells. “I had to stay within 30 minutes of the hospital for six weeks and, through the Bone Marrow for Leukaemia Trust, we were lucky to get an apartment,” she said.”I had a biopsy 100 days after the transplant and it showed I was 98% my donor. I don’t know who they are to this day but I’m very grateful to them.”

Bone marrow transplants are crucial for treating many blood cancers. In the U.S., organizations like Be The Match run registries to connect patients with matching donors, highlighting the importance of participation and awareness.

The Importance of Support and Advocacy

Throughout her arduous journey, Megan relied heavily on the support of her family: her mother Sandra, father Finbarr, older sister Amy, and younger brother Ólan. The emotional and practical support from loved ones can be instrumental in navigating the challenges of cancer treatment.

Despite her own health struggles, Megan faced another personal hardship: her grandmother’s declining health. Unable to visit her grandmother in the nursing home due to her compromised immune system, Megan mourned her passing in March 2024. Despite the grief,Megan draws strength from her grandmother’s memory.

Having experienced the realities of cancer treatment, Megan is now a passionate advocate for early detection, blood donation, and bone marrow donation, especially in the wake of COVID-19’s impact in donation drives. “Make sure you get yearly blood tests, that’s vital,” she advises. “So is knowing the signs of sepsis, and remember to give blood – it could save your life.I was saved by a single bag of blood on more than one occasion.And for anyone who wants to know more about giving bone marrow, see giveblood.ie.” While Megan cites an Irish website, the American equivalent is BeTheMatch.org.

Megan now volunteers with the Irish Cancer Society (ICS), using her skills to support others facing similar challenges. “I don’t work in Limerick anymore and am currently looking for a new position,so with a bit of time on my hands I volunteer with the ICS,helping with their social media and website,and I’m also involved in their fundraiser ‘Relay for Life’ in Midleton

What are the potential environmental factors contributing to the rise in early-onset cancers?

Interview with Dr. Evelyn Reed: Addressing the Rise in Early-onset Cancers

By Archyde News staff

published: March 22, 2025

Dr. Evelyn Reed, a leading oncologist specializing in early-onset cancers, discusses the concerning trends in rising cancer diagnoses among younger populations. This interview explores the potential causes including environmental factors, genetic predispositions, and lifestyle choices. It aims to provide valuable insights into prevention,early detection strategies and patient outcomes.

Introduction: the Growing Concern

Archyde News: Dr. Reed, thank you for joining us today. the medical community is increasingly concerned about the rising number of cancer cases in younger demographics. Could you shed some light on this trend?

Dr. Reed: Thank you for having me. Yes, we are seeing a clear increase in several types of cancers, including breast, colorectal, and certain hematological malignancies, among individuals under 50. This is definitely something we are actively investigating.

Potential Causes: unraveling the Complexity

Archyde News: What are some of the leading factors contributing to this rise? Are we looking primarily at environmental factors, genetic predispositions, or lifestyle choices?

Dr. Reed: It’s likely a combination of factors. Environmental exposures, such as toxins and pollutants, could play a significant role. We are also seeing variations in genetic predispositions and lifestyle choices. Diet, exercise, and exposure to processed foods and chemicals are all areas of interest. However, research is still ongoing to determine the exact causes.

Archyde News: Can you elaborate on specific lifestyle choices that might be contributing to this increase?

Dr. Reed: Sure. Sedentary habits are contributing, but on the other hand, obesity rates have continued to increase, with links to numerous cancers. Increased alcohol consumption and smoking rates have also become a growing issue. these choices, alongside the consumption of processed foods with their additives, put individuals at greater risk.

Early Detection: A Critical Weapon

Archyde News: Early detection is critical in battling cancer. What are some of the most effective strategies for early detection in young adults?

Dr. Reed: Regular health check-ups are critical. Being aware of your body and reporting any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider is crucial. screening recommendations vary by cancer type and individual risk factors; for some, early screening is becoming more common. As an example,we encourage earlier onset screening for colorectal cancer given the increasing numbers of diagnosis.

Archyde News: What advice do you have for individuals concerned about cancer risks?

Dr. reed: The most significant thing to do is inform your physician about your genetic predisposition, family history, and all relevant personal factors. Don’t hesitate to address your concerns.

Patient Outcomes and Treatment Advances

Archyde News: Are outcomes diffrent for younger patients, and what advancements have we seen in the treatment of early-onset cancers?

Dr. Reed: Outcomes can vary. Younger patients often have more aggressive forms of cancer, but they also tend to tolerate aggressive treatments better. We see many advancements in personalized medicine, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies, offering more options and better outcomes. We’re also learning more about the psychological impact, and providing essential support for successful recovery.

The Path Forward: Research and Public Health

Archyde news: What areas of research are most promising in combating these trends?

Dr. Reed: We need more research into the environmental factors, genetic markers, and how lifestyle choices affect cancer development. Improved screening practices are vital, and we need to develop better tools to assess individual risk. It’s also about preventive initiatives and health education that has to start early on.

Archyde News: Thinking about those with potential genetic predispositions or high-risk factors, how can the medical community help?

Dr. reed: We are making advances with preventative healthcare approaches. Genetic counseling is also available, so your physician can guide you in ways to start down this road.

Conclusion: Taking Action

Archyde News: Dr. Reed, what message would you leave with our readers?

Dr. Reed: Early detection, adopting a healthier lifestyle, and proactive engagement with your healthcare provider are essential steps. Be informed, be vigilant, and make your health a priority. Awareness is key: the more people know, the more they can take action.

Archyde News: Thank you,Dr. Reed, for your valuable insights.

Dr. reed: Thank you for having me.

Reader Engagement

Archyde News: What are your biggest concerns relating to cancer prevention and early detection? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.