Saskia Clark, a 24-year-old from Manchester, has shared the shocking journey she went through after being initially dismissed by doctors who thought her chest pain was nothing serious. The social media manager underwent major surgery to remove 204 cancerous lymph nodes and a tumor in her chest, following a rare thyroid cancer diagnosis in August 2024.
It all started 18 months earlier when Saskia, who led a healthy lifestyle with little alcohol, no smoking, and regular exercise, began experiencing persistent chest pain. Concerned about her symptoms, she visited several doctors, only to be told that the pain was likely linked to anxiety or exhaustion from her demanding work hours. In fact, she was even recommended to try wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and acupuncture to ease her discomfort.
But after countless appointments, a CT scan finally revealed the real issue – thyroid cancer. “It’s crazy to think how long it took for someone to take me seriously,” Saskia said. “I’m so grateful they finally did”, according to the Manchester Evening News.
Since her diagnosis, Saskia has undergone life-saving surgery, including a total thyroidectomy, a bilateral neck dissection to remove lymph nodes, and a sternotomy, which is open heart surgery to remove a tumour from her chest. Her recovery journey has been tough. “Intense is how I’d describe it, a real whirlwind,” she said. “You never expect to be in intensive care, and it really changes your perspective on life. It’s overwhelming being surrounded by people fighting for their lives.”
Saskia spent a week in intensive care and a further four days on a ward before being discharged. In the weeks following the surgeries, she faced many challenges with recovery. “You don’t realise how hard relearning things really is,” she explained. “It’s been a struggle with simple tasks like washing my hair or making a cup of tea. It took me about 10 weeks to manage small things on my own, and even now, I have my off days.”
Post-op, Saskia found herself in A&E multiple times due to swelling and pain. She even had to rely on a wheelchair for long distances, an experience she described as eye-opening. “It really makes you appreciate your independence,” she said. She also wears a neck brace to support her recovery, and tasks like crossing the road alone are still off-limits.
One of the more unexpected challenges was the paralysis of one of her vocal cords, which left her with a huskier, quieter voice. As her cancer is chronic, Saskia will live with it forever, though doctors are confident her symptoms can be managed. Despite everything, she’s determined to stay positive. “I’m getting stronger every day,” she said.
Saskia has shared her experience on TikTok, with many people reaching out to thank her for showing off her scars. “I wanted to show there’s no need to be scared about it,” she said. “It’s something to be proud of, because we only get one body and one life. We need to be kind to it.” Her journey has inspired many to take their health more seriously, reminding people not to ignore their symptoms or push through pain.
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