When 51-year-old Dawn Clegg from Morecambe, Lancashire, started feeling chest pains earlier this year, she thought it was just a side effect of her diabetes treatment, Mounjaro. Like many people managing chronic conditions, Dawn assumed the discomfort was part of the deal with her prescribed injections.
Dawn Clegg has less than a year to live after being diagnosed with soft tissue cancer (SWNS)
But in March, the pain became too much to ignore. A trip to A&E revealed devastating news: Dawn wasn’t experiencing simple side effects—she was battling soft tissue cancer (sarcoma). Doctors found shadows on her lungs, breast, and kidneys, and told her she likely had less than 12 months to live.
A “Living Wake” to Celebrate Life
Dawn’s husband, Arron, is now planning something extraordinary for his wife: a living wake this November. Instead of waiting until her funeral, the family wants to gather loved ones while Dawn is still here to see and feel their support.
“We were devastated hearing the news,” Arron said. “But this way, Dawn can spend quality time with friends and family, and truly see how much people care about her.”
Her husband Arron Clegg will put on a ‘living wake’ for Dawn in a couple of months (SWNS)
Her funeral will later be held at Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium, where she’ll be laid to rest beside her daughter Isobel, who heartbreakingly died during childbirth.
Why Symptoms Can Be Missed
Dawn’s case is sadly not unique. According to Dr Jack Ogden of The Lagom Clinic, it’s easy for patients to confuse persistent health changes with side effects of medications like Mounjaro or other weight-loss injections.
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“It’s important to monitor symptoms, keep a log, and always seek medical advice if something unusual arises,” Dr Ogden explained.
Pharmacist Ana Carolina Goncalves adds that symptoms such as heartburn, abdominal pain, or persistent indigestion shouldn’t be brushed aside, as they could signal cancers of the liver, bladder, or stomach.
She also pointed out that a lump in the neck—sometimes dismissed as swelling from injections—can indicate thyroid cancer. Since side effects of medications often overlap with early cancer symptoms, distinguishing between the two can be difficult.
What Experts Say
Manufacturers like Eli Lilly, who produce Mounjaro, urge patients to only use the drug under licensed medical supervision. They also stress the importance of consulting doctors about any concerning side effects.
“We encourage patients to consult their doctor or other healthcare professional to discuss any possible side effects they may be experiencing,” Eli Lilly told UNILAD.
Why Dawn’s Story Matters
Dawn’s journey is a powerful reminder not to ignore lingering health concerns—even if you think they’re “just side effects.” Whether you’re taking diabetes medication, weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy, or any long-term treatment, keeping track of changes in your body and talking to your doctor could make all the difference.
For more on recognizing early cancer symptoms, check trusted resources like Cancer Research UK and NHS advice.
