A man has received a shattering diagnosis after admitting himself to hospital for an insect bite.
The Mirror reports that when Joe Beckwith was bitten by an unknown bug in October and it did not heal, he was advised by his sister, Leanne, to get it checked out.
The father of three called 111, and the caller suggested he head to hospital immediately.
After doing a few blood tests for the seemingly small bite, it proved much more serious than the 34-year-old from West Yorkshire realised.
Advert
Joe was given the shock diagnosis of blood cancer.
Leanne told Leeds Live: "Our world came crashing down.
"It's been awful - I wouldn't wish it on anybody.
"If he hadn't have gone in he wouldn't have a clue - he didn't have any other symptoms but some night sweats he'd brushed off.
"He couldn't see his kids at Christmas - he hasn't been able to see one of them that lives in Liverpool since he was diagnosed. We were all ill over Christmas and because his immune system is so weak it was too dangerous for him to see them.
"It's been really tough and terrible to see. He's so strong and getting through it - it would mean the world to us just to be able to help him a little."
The father began chemotherapy at the Haematology department in the Bexley Wing at St James's Hospital.
Fortunately, the chemotherapy has worked wonders, and Joe is currently in remission.
However, it's going to be a long road to recovery.
The dad is still receiving constant blood and platelet transfusions every day as he need his platelet count to be much higher to to start his next round of chemo.
Joe’s job requires him to implement artificial lawns; however, he cannot work while receiving treatment.
As a result, his fiancée Ellie's mum, came up with the idea of raising funds so the family wouldn’t have to rely solely on her daughter’s income.
In February, the family committed themselves to complete over 10,000 steps every day in an effort to raise money.
Leanne said: "It'll just make things a bit easier for him and his family so he can focus on his health. We don't want him panicking he can't pay the bills.”
If you would like to make a contribution to Joe’s GoFundMe, head here.
Charisa Bossinakis