A woman who initially attributed her stomach ache to the “anxiety” of her recent break-up was shocked to discover she had ovarian cancer at the age of 19. Storm Reveley, now 22, had just ended a relationship when she began experiencing sudden stomach pains. Mistaking the symptoms for anxiety and later lactose intolerance, Storm’s condition worsened with bloating, lightheadedness, painful bladder, and abnormal bowel movements.
After visiting a doctor who suspected irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Storm’s symptoms persisted, prompting a visit to Nottingham City Hospital. During an emergency surgery in May 2021 to address what was initially believed to be a twisted ovarian cyst, doctors discovered a tumour the size of an “18 week old foetus”. A biopsy confirmed she had germ cell ovarian cancer, leading to four cycles of chemotherapy and eventual remission.
Reflecting on her journey, Storm highlighted the challenges of adjusting to her body’s changes post-treatment, including hair loss and body image shifts. While staying positive during her treatment, Storm acknowledged the emotional toll post-recovery, emphasising the unforeseen struggles faced after ringing the bell to signify the end of treatment.
Storm’s experience also raised concerns about potential impacts on her fertility, as the chemotherapy could have affected her egg count. Looking towards the future, Storm expressed uncertainties about her fertility and the emotional process of grieving her former self in light of her cancer diagnosis.