A mother from Lancashire has been given less than a year to live after mistaking her cancer symptoms for side effects of Mounjaro weight loss injections.
Tragic Misdiagnosis
A 51-year-old mother from Morecambe, Lancashire has been told she has only months to live after doctors discovered her cancer was misinterpreted as possible side effects of her diabetes and weight loss jab, Mounjaro.
Dawn Clegg had been using the medication as prescribed for her diabetes. But by March 2025, she began experiencing chest pains. Believing they were typical side effects of the injections, Dawn dismissed them until her condition rapidly worsened.
When she was rushed to A&E, X-rays revealed shadows on her lungs, breast, and kidneys. Doctors then diagnosed her with soft tissue sarcoma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer.
“We Were Devastated”
Dawn and her husband Arron were told the heartbreaking news that her cancer is terminal, leaving her with less than 12 months to live.
Arron is now organizing a “living wake” this November so Dawn can spend precious time with loved ones while she is still here.
“The wake will mean she can spend quality time with friends and family whilst still alive rather than after the funeral. That way she can see how much people care about her,” Arron said.
Following the living wake, Dawn will eventually be laid to rest at Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium, close to her late daughter Isobel, who died during childbirth.
Doctors Warn of Overlapping Symptoms
Experts say Dawn’s story highlights the danger of dismissing serious symptoms as side effects.
Dr. Jack Ogden of The Lagom Clinic noted:
“It’s easy to attribute symptoms to the most obvious cause. But persistent or unusual side effects should always be checked thoroughly.”
Pharmacist Ana Carolina Goncalves added that common jab side effects such as heartburn, abdominal pain, or indigestion can sometimes mask cancers of the liver, stomach, thyroid, or pancreas.
“This overlap makes identification difficult. Patients must monitor symptoms carefully and seek prompt medical advice,” she said.
Manufacturer’s Response
Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, reminded patients that the injection should only be taken under a licensed doctor’s supervision.
In a statement, the company urged users to consult healthcare professionals if they notice unusual or prolonged side effects, stressing that safety and proper use are critical.
