Jessica Brandy sought medical help on 20 different occasions, but her symptoms weren’t taken seriously. By the time 6 months had passed, it was too late, and the 27-year-old tragically died of a cancer that went needlessly undiagnosed.
Jessica Brady from England worked as an engineer at Airbus. When she started experiencing worrying symptoms, including abdominal pain, coughing, vomiting and weight loss, she decided to seek medical help. The first time she went in, doctors sent her home again without any answers.
Negligence
That sorry pattern continued for six months, with Jessica’s condition gradually worsening. During these months she went to see doctors no less than 20 times, all the while hoping to get clarification as to what might be wrong.
Ultimately, having found no help in public healthcare, she sought private care. It wasn’t long afterwards that she finally received the correct diagnosis: stage four adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer defined as “a malignant epithelial tumor that occurs in glandular tissue.”
By then, it was already too late. Three weeks later, in December 2020, she passed away.
Jessica lived for just three short weeks after receiving her fatal diagnosis. Despite her shock and despair, she showed unwavering courage, a positive attitude, dignity and love.
“She was determined that people would understand how desperately she had tried to fight for herself and seek a solution to her deteriorating health,” her mother, Andrea Brady, told the Mirror.
“Jess’s Rule”
As a result, “Jess’s Rule” has been introduced in Jessica’s memory, and her mother has been staunchly campaigning for its implementation. The rule dictates that doctors be forced to reconsider when a patient has sought care three times.
They are then expected to consider a second assessment, carry out physical examinations, order more tests or write referrals to specialists.
“In the dark weeks after Jess’s passing, I realised it was my duty to continue what she had started,” Andrea added.
“It has taken almost five years to bring “Jess’s Rule” to fruition. I would like to dedicate this initiative to all the young people who have been diagnosed too late. It has only been possible thanks to everyone who has listened – politicians, doctors and the almost half a million people who have supported the campaign.”
UK Health Minister Wes Streeting said Jess’s Rule would strengthen patient safety and ensure that all patients receive the best possible care.
“Jessica Brady’s death was an avoidable and completely unnecessary tragedy,” he said. “I would like to thank her brave family, who, despite their unimaginable grief, have fought tirelessly to ensure that Jessica’s memory helps save the lives of others.”
Rest in peace, Jessica.
READ MORE
- Doctor reveals the 5 ‘silent’ symptoms of bowel cancer as cases surge in young people
- Queen Elizabeth’s four-word reaction after being told she was going to die from cancer
