21-Year-Old Woman Diagnosed with Cancer Given Days to Live After Ignoring Early Warning Signs
Dominique McShain, a vibrant 21-year-old from New Zealand, was living what many would call a typical young adult life. She studied psychology, recently got married, and had a bright future ahead. But just before her 21st birthday, everything changed. She received a devastating diagnosis—stage 4 colorectal cancer. Now, doctors say she has only days or weeks to live. Her story is a sobering reminder of the importance of paying attention to the early warning signs of cancer, even at a young age. These signs can often be dismissed or misunderstood, but catching them early can be the difference between life and death.
From Diagnosis to Advocacy: A Life Cut Short
At first, Dominique didn’t think much of the symptoms. She felt dizzy, noticed blood in her stool, and was constantly tired. Like many young people, she assumed it was stress or diet-related. Cancer didn’t even cross her mind. These symptoms, however, were some of the early warning signs of cancer—specifically colorectal cancer.
Her condition quickly worsened. Doctors initially gave her a life expectancy of up to five years. But in early April 2025, they revised her prognosis. Dominique now has only a short time left. She has entered hospice care and is focusing on comfort and time with loved ones.
Despite the heartbreaking news, Dominique chose to speak out. She turned to social media, not to say goodbye, but to raise awareness. Her videos on TikTok and Instagram have reached millions. In them, she shares her journey and urges others not to ignore the signals their bodies send.
“You don’t expect this at 21,” she said. “But it can happen. And it did.”
She openly discusses the symptoms she overlooked, which were all early warning signs of cancer. Her honesty has sparked a wave of people reevaluating their own health and asking the right questions at the doctor’s office.
Throughout this difficult journey, Dominique’s husband Sean has stayed by her side. The couple married shortly after her diagnosis. She called it “the most special day ever.” Their love story has added a human layer to her advocacy—one that shows strength, vulnerability, and the value of living fully, even in the face of death.
A Rising Threat: Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults
Dominique’s case is tragic, but not rare. Colorectal cancer is on the rise in young adults. It is now the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50, and the second-leading cause in women under 50. One in five new colorectal cancer cases occurs in people under 55—a number that has doubled in the last few decades.
Doctors and researchers are still trying to understand why this is happening. Some link it to diet, stress, or sedentary lifestyles. Others point to environmental factors or genetic mutations. Whatever the cause, the message is clear: cancer doesn’t care about age.
That’s why knowing the early warning signs of cancer is so important. For colorectal cancer, these signs often include:
- Blood in or on your stool
- Changes in bowel habits
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramps
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing fatigue
- A sensation of incomplete bowel movement
Even if these symptoms seem minor or come and go, they should be taken seriously. Dominique wants people to understand that delaying medical attention—especially out of embarrassment—can have life-altering consequences.
Read More: Doctor Explains Theory Behind Rising Cancer Rates in Young People After One Twin Gets Stage 4 Diagnosis
The Power of Speaking Up and Getting Help
Dominique’s mission is to remove the shame around discussing digestive health and bowel issues. Too many people ignore the early warning signs of cancer because they’re uncomfortable talking about them.
In one of her viral TikTok videos, she says, “If something feels off, get it checked. Don’t wait because you’re scared or embarrassed. I waited, and now I’m out of time.”
Her message has resonated with people around the world. Receiving messages from followers saying they booked appointments because of her. Some have even discovered their own health issues thanks to her honesty.
Support, Strength, and a Lasting Legacy
A fundraiser was set up to help Dominique cover her medical costs and, now, her hospice care. The response has been overwhelming. Thousands of people have donated, shared her story, and offered support. It’s clear that her voice is making a lasting impact.
Dominique’s story is more than a personal tragedy—it’s a public wake-up call. It urges everyone, especially young adults, to learn what the early warning signs of cancer look like and to act on them. Don’t assume you’re too young. Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. And don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Though her time may be short, Dominique’s message is powerful: early detection saves lives. Listen to your body. Speak up. Take action. The earlier you catch cancer, the better your chances of survival.
If you notice any unusual symptoms—especially those linked to bowel or digestive health—talk to your doctor. Don’t dismiss the early warning signs of cancer. Early action could save your life.
