Sometimes the smallest aches can shake your peace of mind, especially when they linger too long. That’s what happened to 59-year-old Esther Shoebridge, who first noticed a stubborn pain in her neck in 2020 and assumed it was nothing serious.

Her GP assured her it was a simple strain and sent her home with painkillers. But the ache grew sharper, and months later Esther learned the truth she never expected. A broken bone in her neck had been hiding something far more dangerous.

The turning point came when specialists revealed she had myeloma, a little-known blood cancer that weakens bones from the inside. The disease had already created tiny holes throughout her spine and skull, leaving her at risk of life-changing fractures. Doctors also explained that earlier testing might have prevented some of the damage.

Looking back, Esther realized her body had been sending warnings. She had felt unusually weak, was drinking huge amounts of water, and had lost weight without trying. She even bought a neck brace, hoping the problem was only muscular, never imagining her symptoms were tied to cancer.

Treatment was difficult at first, with two rounds of chemotherapy failing. A third finally slowed the disease, giving Esther hope and strength to keep fighting. She even walked four miles a day for five days to raise money for myeloma research.

Today, Esther focuses on making the most of her time with family, grateful for each day she feels strong. Her story reminds us to listen closely when our bodies whisper — because those whispers may matter more than we think.