Young Cancer Survivor Shares Journey Through Early Menopause

At just 15 years old, Ellie Waters-Barnes faced a life-altering diagnosis of early menopause triggered by treatment for a rare cancer. Now 24, she reflects on her experience with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer that changed her life trajectory and brought attention to the often-taboo subject of early menopause.

Ellie’s battle with cancer began at age 14 when she discovered a small lump in her left buttock. Initially embarrassed, she waited seven months to discuss her symptoms with her parents. By the time she sought medical attention, the cancer had advanced to Stage Four, indicating that it had spread to other parts of her body. Alongside the lump, she faced severe constipation, difficulty urinating, and sharp pain in her leg during activities like running and playing football.

Following her diagnosis in September 2015, Ellie underwent an intensive 18-month treatment regimen, which included nine months of chemotherapy and pelvic radiotherapy. This treatment aimed to eradicate the cancer but came with significant side effects. The chemotherapy left her physically and mentally exhausted, triggering additional complications such as early menopause and infertility.

Facing the Challenges of Early Menopause

Ellie describes feeling “trapped in an 80-year-old’s body.” She was thrust into menopause without having fully experienced puberty. “I thought menopause only meant no periods and maybe the occasional hot flush,” she said, unaware of the broader implications. After her treatment concluded, she learned that her periods were unlikely to return, leading doctors to prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to alleviate her symptoms.

Her experience is not just medical; it has deeply affected her self-image and social interactions. “I felt unwomanly compared to my peers,” she confessed. The physical changes and the onset of menopause made her feel disconnected from the typical teenage experience, which included discussions about periods and dating.

Despite these challenges, Ellie has found ways to cope. She sought additional medical support and, after a private consultation in April 2020, received an effective dose of HRT that significantly improved her quality of life. “Within two weeks, I felt like a new woman,” she said.

Raising Awareness and Supporting Others

Ellie’s journey has motivated her to pursue a medical degree at Keele University in Stoke-on-Trent, with aspirations to become an oncology doctor by August 2026. She aims to use her experiences to support others facing similar health challenges, underscoring the importance of open discussions about early menopause and cancer survivorship.

“People often feel ashamed about early menopause,” she explained. “I always tell others to empower themselves with knowledge.” She advocates for increased awareness, encouraging others to educate themselves about their conditions and treatment options.

Claire Taylor, Chief Nursing Officer at Macmillan Cancer Support, emphasized the importance of support for women navigating treatment-induced menopause. “Many women feel overwhelmed and alone,” she stated, highlighting the resources available through Macmillan, including their Support Line and Online Community.

Ellie has learned to accept her situation while also striving to raise awareness. “For me, it’s all about acceptance and making sure I talk about it,” she said. By sharing her story, she hopes to transform a challenging experience into a source of strength for herself and others.