Teen Dies After Brain Cancer Is Misdiagnosed as Ear Infection
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A tragedy unfolded as 19-year-old Jac Sexton lost his life following a misdiagnosis by doctors who failed to detect his terminal cancer. In October 2024, Jac began experiencing severe symptoms including headaches, double vision, slurred speech, and loss of balance. Despite seeking medical help, his distress was attributed to an ear infection resulting from a recent case of glandular fever. His family recounted the dismissal of his symptoms in a GoFundMe page, where it was revealed that Jac was prescribed antibiotics and sent home.
The situation escalated rapidly when, a few days later, Jac collapsed at home, prompting an urgent visit to Prince Charles Hospital. An emergency CT scan unravelled the devastating truth – Jac was suffering from glioblastoma, an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer. This rare cancer claims the lives of over 10,000 Americans annually and is notoriously difficult to treat, often resulting in a median survival rate of 14 to 14.5 months after diagnosis.
Following the grim diagnosis, Jac courageously underwent a rigorous six-week radiation treatment regimen. His family shared that the intensity of the treatment took a toll on his health, causing significant physical challenges such as the loss of mobility on his left side, extreme fatigue, and difficulty swallowing. Despite his resilience, Jac suffered a critical incident in January when he stopped breathing at home and had to be placed in a medically induced coma due to the lack of oxygen, risking severe brain damage or heart failure.
Against all odds, Jac showed remarkable strength as he responded positively to treatment, eventually emerging from the induced coma without lasting damage to his brain. This unexpected turn of events astounded medical professionals, with one ICU doctor admitting to never encountering such a positive outcome in his 30-year career. Jac was subsequently transferred to Noah’s Arc Cancer Centre for palliative care and spent five weeks under their supervision before returning home.
Tragically, on February 25th, Jac passed away at home surrounded by his loved ones. His family expressed their immense pride in Jac’s unwavering strength and spirit, emphasising his enduring sense of humour and personality even in the face of adversity. The community rallied around the family during Jac’s battle, exemplifying the power of support and compassion in times of hardship.
The heartbreaking loss of Jac serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of early and accurate medical diagnoses. Glioblastoma presents numerous challenges in detection and treatment, highlighting the critical need for enhanced awareness and understanding of such aggressive cancers. Jac’s story resonates as a testament to resilience, love, and the enduring impact of a life bravely lived in the face of insurmountable odds.
As we reflect on Jac’s journey, may his memory inspire us to advocate for improved medical practices, increased support for cancer patients and their families, and a deeper appreciation for every precious moment we share with our loved ones. Let us honour Jac’s legacy by fostering a community of compassion and empathy, ensuring that no one battles alone in their fight against cancer.