A grieving couple have bravely recounted the devastating loss of their teenage daughter to breast cancer, after medical professionals repeatedly dismissed her symptoms as mere hormonal changes that she would grow out of. Mark and Michelle Sneddon appeared on ITV's This Morning to detail the harrowing diagnostic journey that led to their daughter Isla's death in 2024, aged just 17.
Initial Concerns Brushed Aside
Isla first discovered a lump in her breast at the age of 15, prompting immediate concern from her mother Michelle. The family visited their GP, hoping for a thorough investigation, but were told it was nothing to worry about and likely hormonal, with assurances it would resolve on its own. This dismissal, as Mark emotionally recalled, marked the tragic beginning of Isla's cancer journey, with the lump being overlooked due to her youth and apparent fitness.
Delayed Diagnosis and Downgraded Referral
Two years later, in 2024, Isla experienced pain in the same area, leading to a GP recommendation for an urgent biopsy on suspicion of cancer. However, the referral was downgraded because of her age, delaying critical intervention. Following a holiday, Isla became increasingly unwell and was eventually diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, with doctors giving her only months to live. She passed away six months after diagnosis, having endured chemotherapy and significant physical changes, yet courageously living her best life until the end.
Campaigning for Change with Isla's Law
Inspired by their daughter's ordeal, Mark and Michelle are now campaigning for Isla's Law, which aims to ensure doctors investigate cancer symptoms in teenagers and children with the same urgency as in adults. They argue that early intervention could have saved Isla, as the cancer had spread extensively by the time of her diagnosis. The couple highlighted that while most cases in young people may be benign, the small percentage like Isla's deserve a fighting chance, criticising NHS staff for hiding behind guidelines that failed their daughter.
Support and Political Engagement
Their petition on Change.org has garnered over 35,000 signatures, and they are scheduled to meet with Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray to discuss their concerns. Gray expressed deep sympathies and noted updated Scottish Referral Guidelines for Suspected Cancer, including new provisions for children and young people, to improve timely pathways. Meanwhile, NHS Lanarkshire stated that Isla's treatment followed expected clinical pathways but acknowledged the family's devastation, offering continued support.
This heartbreaking story underscores the urgent need for better recognition of cancer symptoms in youth, as the Sneddons channel their grief into advocacy to prevent similar tragedies.
