Sophie Zenonos’ Cancer Diagnosis Delayed by Months of Misdiagnosis
Authors: Neil Shaw, Assistant Editor (Money and Lifestyle), and Kate Lally, SEO Writer
Date: 15:18, 07 Dec 2025 | Updated: 15:49, 07 Dec 2025
Sophie Zenonos, 28, reports that her symptoms were dismissed by doctors for months before discovering she had stage-four cancer. Initially, in October 2019, she experienced breathlessness, fatigue, and a persistent cough, prompting her to consult her GP.
In January 2020, Sophie visited A&E due to worsening symptoms. She claims doctors repeatedly prescribed antibiotics, diagnosing her with a chest infection. Despite being active and visiting the gym regularly, her breathlessness worsened, making it difficult to climb stairs.
After a severe coughing fit in June 2020, Sophie returned to the doctor. An X-ray revealed a large tumor in her chest, leading to a diagnosis of stage four Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.
Sophie expressed frustration over the delayed diagnosis. After chemotherapy and radiotherapy, she was declared free of blood cancer in May 2021, but now faces thyroid cancer.
Living in Essex, Sophie urges others to seek a second opinion if they feel unwell. “I was struggling to breathe and had a persistent cough and fatigue,” she recalls.
After months of persistence, Sophie was diagnosed with stage four blood cancer in June 2020. “It took nine months to receive the correct diagnosis,” she said. An X-ray revealed a large tumor, leading to immediate treatment at a specialist hospital in London.
Sophie underwent six chemotherapy cycles and 20 radiotherapy sessions, achieving remission by May 2021. However, she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in late 2023.
In February 2024, Sophie had surgery to remove her thyroid and affected lymph nodes. Despite treatment, some lymph nodes remain cancerous. “They are stable, and doctors are determining the next steps,” she stated.
Sophie encourages others to trust their instincts and seek further medical opinions if necessary. “Early diagnosis is crucial for better outcomes,” she advises.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer affecting the lymphatic system, with symptoms including painless swelling in lymph nodes. Treatment often involves chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
