Ovarian Cancer and Early Menopause: A Teen’s Story
A Devastating Diagnosis at 19
Enlli Thompson’s life took an unexpected turn when she was just 19 years old. What started as stomach issues and headaches was initially dismissed by doctors as a bug or urinary infection. Even anxiety was considered a possible cause. It wasn’t until a scan revealed a cyst in her pelvis that a devastating truth was revealed: Enlli had stage 3 ovarian cancer.
Navigating a New Reality
The news came as a shock, but Enlli found solace in knowing she had an answer and a treatment plan. She underwent chemotherapy, and during this time, she froze seven of her eggs, a vital step in preserving her fertility.
Life-Changing Impact
After completing her chemotherapy in September 2025, Enlli experienced a sudden and permanent change. She entered surgical menopause, which meant her womb was removed, leading to immediate menopause. This turned her life upside down, as she now faces symptoms like hot flushes, brain fog, joint and muscle pain, and fatigue.
"My memory is absolutely awful." — Enlli Thompson
A Shift for the Better
Despite the challenges, Enlli reflects positively on her experience. She went from being quiet and shy to feeling empowered and in control. Her cancer battle has given her a new perspective and a sense of purpose.
Raising Awareness
Enlli hopes her story will raise awareness, especially for young women who might not be taken seriously when presenting symptoms. She believes that more needs to be done to ensure ovarian cancer is considered in younger patients, as it was initially overlooked in her case.
Supporting Young Women
Every year, approximately 120 young women in the UK are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and one in 10,000 experience menopause in their teens. Enlli‘s story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a call to action for better understanding and support for young patients facing similar challenges.
