A 21-year-old man who thought he simply “needed a new bed” after developing back pain has died just days after being diagnosed with cancer.
Gerald Green, from Paisley in Renfrewshire, Scotland, initially brushed off the ache as nothing serious. But his condition worsened when he began vomiting. Concerned, he tried to keep his symptoms from his parents — until they discovered he was coughing up blood.
His mum, Paula, rushed him to the Royal Alexandra Hospital on January 19. Doctors found Gerald had severe anaemia and performed emergency treatment, including a procedure to relieve pressure on his kidneys.
During surgery, Gerald stopped breathing and had to be resuscitated. Doctors placed him in an induced coma as they fought to stabilise him.
After waking, Gerald spent a week undergoing tests before receiving devastating news: an aggressive cancer that was spreading rapidly. He was moved to St Vincent’s Hospice for end-of-life care.
He died on January 30, only hours after arriving.
Gerald’s family is now urging young people not to ignore unusual symptoms — especially vomiting blood, coughing blood, or persistent pain. They believe he was frightened, which may be why he stayed quiet at first.
Loved ones say Gerald was funny, kind, and football-mad, with a big soft spot for his dogs and St Mirren FC. He had recently stepped back from football to help care for his dad after a stroke.
The family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs and give Gerald the farewell they feel he deserves.
