For around a year, my skin was so itchy I would scratch it until I bled – even then, I never managed to satisfy the feeling, and it would often keep me awake at night. It never crossed my mind that it could be a symptom of a life-threatening illness.
At the same time, I was feeling tired, losing weight, sweating at night, and always coming down with a cold or flu. It was only when I found a lump on my neck that I thought it might be something serious.
I often couldn’t take a full breath in – this was because a tumour in my chest was about 30 centimetres – but I’d just assumed that it was probably down to something like glandular fever.
Consultants usually tell patients their diagnoses in person, so when the doctor said over the phone in September 2018, ‘You’ve got cancer’, it was clear time wasn’t on our side.
‘It’s stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma in the neck, lung, chest and under the diaphragm. If you’d come to us about a week later, we wouldn’t have been able to do anything for you,’ he added.
The diagnosis left me dumbstruck, like I’d been hit with a freight train. How did this happen? I was only 26.
After I put the phone down to my doctor, I said to my mum and dad, ‘Can you take me to the hospital because I’ve got cancer?’ It was completely unexpected for them, but we didn’t have the space to think about it; I just had to get started on treatment.
24 hours later, I began chemotherapy. I was able to stay surprisingly positive during the six months of treatment and tried to have a lot of fun. I’d fundraise, have chemo parties, and whenever I went out, I was always silly about being bald.
When I finally got the all-clear a few months later, I couldn’t wait to enjoy my life again.
Why can be itchy skin a sign of Hodgkin Lymphoma?
‘Skin irritations and problems such as dry, sore and itchy skin can be a symptom of lymphoma,’ the Lymphoma Action charity explains.
‘Scientists think that itching as a symptom of lymphoma might develop because of cytokines. These are proteins released by your immune system when your body is fighting an infection or an illness, like lymphoma. It’s thought that cytokines cause itching by irritating the nerves in your skin.
‘Skin problems often start to go away once treatment for lymphoma starts.’
Itchy skin is not always a sign of anything serious. You can often treat it yourself, and it will usually go away after a few weeks, but see a GP if you’re worried or the problem persists.
A step backwards
My parents and I were so confident I would be fine when I went for a routine check-up scan in June 2019 that we dressed up nicely for a celebratory lunch afterwards.
Then the doctor told me: ‘I’m afraid it’s back.’
It was shocking news, but we kept our restaurant reservation as I’d already learnt that you must enjoy life whenever you can. I knew I might not be well enough to go out soon. I enjoyed a few drinks and saw Jude Law, so that was fun!
The severity of my new cancer meant I needed a stem cell transplant, which replaces damaged or diseased blood-forming cells with healthy ones. When I had it in October 2019, I couldn’t leave the hospital – even to go outside – for nearly five weeks. I was also more unwell and didn’t have any energy to make it a fun experience, like last time.
When it came to shaving my head again, I remember my mum’s tearful face in the corner of the bathroom, and snapping at her because I didn’t want to see or feel any emotion.
In some ways, my illness was even harder for my parents. Some days, I was in so much pain it felt like there were little shards of glass floating around my body, and all they could do was sit and watch. Their lives were put on hold every day, not knowing if their daughter would make it.
Going through the menopause
Three months after my stem cell transplant, I had a scan which showed the cancer had gone. My procedure meant that my chances of having kids became around 0.1%, but I had no choice – what’s the point in being fertile if I wasn’t going to be alive?
However, when I started feeling better, reality hit. I always wanted to be a mum, and began grieving for the kids I’ll never get to have.
The transplant also put me through menopause at just 29, which was tough as the doctors didn’t explain it to me, and I didn’t realise what was happening.
At first, I thought I was having a mental breakdown. My emotions were all over the place, my anxiety was crazy, and I was so low. I was also suffering from night sweats, sore joints and brain fog. Once I put my iron in the fridge.
I was lucky to have a therapist who helped me through these life changes and eventually made the connection for me.
I was put back on the pill for oestrogen, but it was suggested I come off because I had strokes. The pill can lead to an increased risk of blood clots and further strokes.
So now, age 32, I’ve been hit by another wave of menopause symptoms, which can be difficult because none of my friends are at this stage and, as lovely and supportive as they are, they don’t entirely understand it.
A new chapter
A few months after the stem cell transplant, I went back to my job as an executive assistant at a recruitment company. They’d been so brilliant with me while I was ill, but in the end, I left so I could concentrate on my social media.
I’d used it as a way to let people know how I was getting on with the diagnosis and treatment, but I also wanted to share my experience in case it could help someone else feel less alone.
I hadn’t known anyone my age who had been sick, so I had no one I could ask about little things, such as how to tie a headscarf or protect my nails in chemo, or talk about the big stuff, like fears. I wanted to change that and now I have nearly 100k followers and the most wonderful community who are all kind, empowering, encouraging and understanding.
It’s also spurred me to start my own business, Life’s for Living, a travel company that takes women on adventure trips. Everyone’s there for a reason, whether they’ve had a health issue, they’re going through a divorce, they’ve struggled mentally, or they’ve been feeling insecure in their bodies. It’s so incredible to bring everyone together. We bond, and it becomes beautiful.
Having cancer means time feels like a precious thing, and now I want to do as much as I can. But my mum reminds me I can say ‘no’ sometimes. For a while, I’d give a panicked yes to everything and get burned out.
It sounds cheesy, but I’ve realised that saying yes isn’t just for the big things. I used to only light candles for nice occasions, but now I light them whenever I want. It’s not feasible to have some big bucket list trip every day, so I try to remind people it’s about the little things too.
Last year, I had a party to raise money for The Royal Marsden Hospital and celebrate being five years cancer-free.
What most people didn’t know was that I was still waiting to find out if it had come back, after an inconclusive scan. I felt as if I was cheating by celebrating, so I’ve never felt such relief when I got the all clear.
I never like to thank cancer for stuff, because I don’t think it deserves the credit, but I also know that without it, I wouldn’t be who I am now.
You can follow Georgie Swallow on Instagram here.
As told to Josie Copson
This article was first published on June 22, 2025.
What is Hodgkin Lymphoma?
Hodgkin lymphoma is an uncommon cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels and glands spread throughout your body. It can develop at any age, but it mostly affects people aged between 20-40 and those over 75.
Around 2,100 people are diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in the UK each year. The most common symptom of Hodgkin lymphoma is a painless swelling in a lymph node, usually in the neck, armpit or groin.
Around 8 out of 10 people with Hodgkin lymphoma live at least 5 years, and most of these will be cured. However, there’s a risk of long-term problems after treatment, including infertility and an increased risk of developing another type of cancer in the future.
Information taken from the NHS website
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19 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
We found a great alternative to Melania’s canary yellow state banquet gown (and it’s only £40!)
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President Trump’s official state visit to the UK is in full swing and last night’s glitzy state banquet at Windsor Castle marked the most formal and fashion-filled moment of the two-day affair.
The Princess of Wales looked breathtaking in a couture gold lace gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley, paired with the iconic Lover’s Knot tiara that the late Princess Diana adored.
You’d be forgiven for thinking that with such a sparkling, incredible dress all eyes would be on Catherine, but it was Melania Trump’s bright yellow dress that stole the show.
Love her or loathe her, the First Lady opted for something quite daring for the lavish dinner: an off-the-shoulder, floor-length Carolina Herrera dress in canary yellow, with a pale pink waist belt and turquoise earrings.
ASOS DESIGN Fold Over Bardot Midi Dress in Orange
A sleek off-the-shoulder number, this ASOS DESIGN Fold Over Bardot Midi Dress in Orange features a fold-over Bardot neckline and figure-skimming silhouette. The bold colour is bright and uplifting and works for all seasons. Pair it with a pale pink waist belt as worn by Melania.
It may not have been to everyone’s taste but there’s no arguing that Melania’s dress was eye-catching.
And while Melania’s exact look likely came with a five-figure price tag, we’ve found a high street alternative that delivers all the drama without the cost.
Let’s state the obvious, the ASOS DESIGN Fold Over Bardot Midi Dress isn’t quite as bright as the Carolina Herrera number, but with long sleeves and a fitted waist, this off-the-shoulder dress bears a pretty striking resemblance to its designer counterpart.
Pair it with a chunky light pink waist belt — Lemon Daisy Accessories’ Vasia Women Square Buckle Belt (£25) is perfect for this — and voila! You’ve got the First Lady’s look without spending a small fortune.
Melania’s bold banquet look might not be to everyone’s taste, but it’s proof that colour, confidence, and a strong silhouette can still steal the spotlight.
And with this ASOS version, there’s no designer label or designer budget required.
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19 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'Married men are obsessed with me – I'm paid thousands just to speak to them'
Jolene Dawson, 29, is an influencer and model who has more than 16,000 followers on Instagram. She he admits married men can’t resist her, even going so far as to pay for her attention
19 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'Low maintenance' friendships may seem appealing but could be a sign of something worse
It can be exhausting messaging your friends all day – but how infrequent is too infrequent? A relationship expert reveals whether TikTok’s ‘low maintenance friend’ trend can actually be healthy
19 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Shoppers call Dunelm’s heated clothes rack ‘essential’ – and it costs just 7p per hour
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
When autumn/winter hits, the laundry pile can seem like a daunting task.
Piles of wet washing impossible to dry can mount up and if not dried fully, can develop a nasty musty smell.
While tumble dryers can help, they’re often expensive to run, bulky and not always gentle on your clothes.
That’s why a heated clothes airer is nothing short of an absolute must-have for all households.
There’s few on the market but the one we rate is Dunelm’s 3 Tier Heated Airer. Priced at £95, this heated clothes rack features three tiers that hold up to 15kg of washing and gives up to 20m of drying space.
Dunelm 3 Tier Heated Airer
With three tiers of heated racks, the Dunelm 3 Tier Heated Airer holds up to 15kg of washing and gives up to 20m of washing space. Light and foldable for easy storage, this airer speeds up drying time of wet laundry and costs just 7p per hour to run.
Made from sturdy but lightweight aluminium, the household gadget folds flat for easy storage and is designed to be used with the 3 Tier Heated Airer Cover to speed up drying time.
It’s economical too and costs just 7p per hour to run so there’s no need to panic about high energy bills.
Sharing their rave reviews, one previous shopper said: ‘Great Product, very cheap to run but also gets the job done!’
Another reviewer wrote: ‘Wouldn’t be without this as a family of 4. Can easily have 2 loads of washing on it, dries quicker than a standard airer for much less than the cost of running the tumble dryer! I wouldn’t be without it.’
And another review said: ‘Really very happy with my heated airer. It is so was to use, works really well and speedily dries a whole washing load virtually overnight. It’s so lovely not to have endless damp washing.’
This autumn/winter, don’t dread the laundry pile. Instead, shop Dunelm’s 3 Tier Heated Airer and get the job done for less.
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18 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
This £86 suit is the perfect alternative to Princess Catherine’s £1,370 Bella Freud look
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Princess Catherine knows how to pull together a look and her latest outfit is proof.
Over the weekend, the royal paid a visit to Sudbury Silk Mills in a sharp grey checked suit that oozed sophistication.
The tailored two-piece, a Bella Freud number, looked chic and put-together and proved the princess has got effortless power dressing down to a tee.
But, if you’re wanting to shop the suit for yourself you will have to fork out a whopping £1,370.
Luckily, the shopping experts at Metro have found a brilliant high street alternative for just £86, saving you a massive £1,284.
Next Grey/Blue Check Single Breasted Sculpting Blazer
Featuring a grey/blue checked pattern and fitted cut, the Next Grey/Blue Check Single Breasted Sculpting Blazer is stylish and chic. Also available is the matching Sculpting Slim Leg Trousers (£32) for a full-on power dressing moment. Both pieces are machine washable and available in a range of sizes with Petite sizing available too.
Next’s Grey/Blue Check Single Breasted Sculpting Blazer and matching Sculpting Slim Leg Trousers (£32) feature a similarly smart check pattern and flattering, tailored fit that echoes Catherine’s designer look without the designer price tag.
Appropriate for the office but versatile enough for dinner or drinks, this suit looks a lot more expensive than it is but is brilliantly practical and suitable for chucking in the washing machine when it gets dirty.
Style it with a black crew neck top like Kate, and finish with minimal jewellery, a black leather belt and a sleek blow-dry to really channel the Princess’s style.
Not quite confident enough to go all-in on the suit? They work just as well as separates. Try the blazer with black wide-leg trousers or jeans and the trousers with a crisp white shirt.
Because, as this look proves, you don’t need a royal budget to dress like a princess.
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18 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Recreate Kate’s regal burgundy ensemble with these affordable high street versions
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When the Princess of Wales stepped out in a regal burgundy outfit to greet President Trump during his arrival at Windsor yesterday, the fashion crowd took note.
Looking every bit the royal, Kate wore a stunning Emilia Wickstead coat dress, paired with a Jane Taylor hat, Gianvito Rossi 105 pumps, and a matching Chanel bag.
Follow rolling coverage of Donald Trump’s state visit on Metro’s live blog
While we’re not 100% sure of the exact cost of the entire ensemble, it’s safe to say it would have run well into the four figures.
After all, a near-identical Emilia Wickstead coat dress to the one Kate wore is currently listed on the brand’s website for a jaw-dropping £2,200.
Spending that much on an outfit is unthinkable for most of us, but rest assured—the shopping experts at Metro have found much more affordable options available on the high street right now.
From Monsoon to & Other Stories, we’ve rounded up our favourite pieces in the trending deep oxblood red colour to rival Kate’s stunning number, all at a far more affordable price.
The best high street burgundy dresses:
Monsoon Prue Knit Pleated Shirt Dress Red
Smart, feminine and easy to wear, Monsoon’s Prue Knit Pleated Shirt Dress is made from a soft knit fabric and features a collared neckline, gold-tone button placket and stitched panel seams that give a flattering, tailored fit.
Next Love & Roses Cherry Red Pleated Midi Dress
The Next Love & Roses Cherry Red Pleated Midi Dress has long sleeves, pleating from shoulder to skirt and a flattering fitted waist. Ideal for daytime events or evening occasions, it pairs beautifully with heels or boots for a polished look.
Nobody's Child Burgundy Cord Finchley Midi Shirt Dress
Made from soft burgundy corduroy, the Finchley midi shirt dress from Nobody’s Child features a classic collar, button-through front and long sleeves. It has a relaxed tailored fit and matching waist tie to cinch you in. Practical and stylish, it's a great choice for cooler days.
& Other Stories Knitted Wool Midi Dress
This long-sleeved midi dress is knitted using 55% responsibly sourced wool and 45% cotton. It’s in a slim fit and features include a classic collar and a keyhole opening at the front, fastened with a single button.
ASOS ONLY Dress in Vineyard Wine
This midi dress from ONLY at ASOS has a slim fit with long sleeves and is made from a soft, stretchy jersey fabric. The midi length and high neck will keep you cosy and look great styled with leather boots and a long coat.
Florere Acacia Curved Seam Midi Dress, Burgundy
The Acacia dress by Florere is cut in a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette with soft shaping through the waist and curved seam detailing. Made in a deep burgundy shade, this midi-length style features long split cuff sleeves and a high neckline for a clean finish.
Get ready to channel your inner Princess of Wales with these gorgeous dresses in the colour of the season.
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18 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
How long you should be able to stand on one leg, according to your age
Unless you’re a budding yogi, it’s not often that you stand on one leg. After all, you’re not a flamingo.
But this quick minute(ish) activity can actually reveal a lot about your physical health.
It’s no secret that our bodies change as we get older: from wrinkles to our hair, to memory recall and the ability to digest certain foods.
But research has revealed that standing on one leg can be a strong indicator of how well you’re ageing.
In a study published in the journal of PLoS One in 2023, researchers found that strength and balance involved in the pose is among the first to go.
They discovered a sharp drop off in ability after the age of 65, with many older participants struggling to hold the pose for more than two seconds.
The authors wrote: ‘These findings suggest that the duration of unipedal stance [standing on one leg] can serve as a reliable and gender-independent measure of neuromuscular ageing for both elderly male and female subjects.’
So, standing on one leg is a good way to measure how much balance you have. The researchers wrote that it is a ‘a valid measure of frailty, independence, and fall status and proves to be a useful tool in identifying patients with peripheral neuropathy.’
And it’s not just academic – the NHS has a guideline for how long you should be able to stand on one leg for – depending on your age of course.
Back in 2023, the NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Board asked: ‘How long can you stand on one leg like a flamingo?’
They added: ‘It might sound like an odd question, but your answer to the above question could tell you a lot about your general health and fitness’.
The rules are:
- Stand on one leg without any other support
- Keep your eyes open and your hands on your hips
- Time starts when your foot leaves the ground and stops when you put your foot back down (or when you take your hands off your hips)
Ages 18-39: 43 seconds
If you are aged between 18-39, you should be able to stand on one leg, like a flamingo, for 43 seconds.
Selina Lim, Divisional Director for Integrated Pathways at the NHS East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), said: ‘We know that people who struggle to balance for the expected amount of time are at a higher risk of developing ill-health as they age.
‘By taking part in the “flamingo challenge” people can quickly and easily assess for themselves whether they are at risk. If they are, there are lots of different activities they can engage in that can help improve their overall fitness.’
Ages 40-49: 40 seconds
If you are aged between 40 and 49, you should be able to stand on one leg for 40 seconds.
Doesn’t sound like a long time, but as you get older, the length of time you can stand on one leg decreases
Ages 50-59: 37 seconds
Those aged between 50 to 59, you should be able to stand on one leg for 37 seconds.
According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the inability to stand on one leg for 10 seconds in mid to later life is linked to a near doubling in the risk of death from any cause within the next 10 years.
Ages 60-69: 30 seconds
If you are aged between 60 to 69, you should be able to stand on one leg for 30 seconds.
Debbie Dyer, Clinical Lead for Ageing Well and Anticipatory Care at the North East Essex Alliance, said: ‘Moving our bodies more day-to-day brings immediate benefit, too. Exercise is brilliant for mental health and is a great way of meeting new people in your community.
‘The fitter and healthier you are, the better your mental wellbeing, and the longer you will retain your agility, strength, and balance into later life.’
Ages 70-79: 18 seconds. 80+: 5 seconds
Those aged between 70 to 79 should be able to stand on one leg for around 18-19 seconds. If you’re over 80, you should be able to stand on your leg for a little over 5 seconds.
The NHS recommends not to try and maintain the pose for longer than a minute though.
This article was originally published November 28, 2024.
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18 Sep, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Melania Trump’s skirt suit oozes elegance: here’s where you can get the look for less
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The pomp and pageantry were on full display this afternoon as President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived at Windsor Castle.
Greeted by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Prince and Princess of Wales, it marked day one of the official state visit.
The Grenadier Guards’ procession was nothing short of impressive but, let’s be honest, all eyes were on Melania and what she’d chosen to wear for the grand occasion.
FLOTUS stepped out in an understated black skirt suit, paired with classic black pumps, topped off with a wide-brimmed purple hat – possibly to keep the Great British weather from ruining her hair and makeup, but we couldn’t possibly speculate.
While we haven’t had confirmation on the exact designer just yet, we’re pretty confident it didn’t come cheap.
The First Lady is no stranger to luxury fashion, frequently stepping out in labels like Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, and Dior.
And while the high-end designs are beautiful, there’s really no need to splash the cash as the high street has fantastic alternatives that capture the same timeless elegance without breaking the bank.
With brands like Aligne, River Island and Sainsbury’s Tu bringing forward their own, far more affordable alternatives to the sleek two-piece outfit, getting that power suit look has never been easier.
So if you’re looking to recreate Melania’s look, we’ve rounded up some of the best versions from the high street that are sure to tick your boxes.
Best high street skirt suits:
Aligne Bonnie Ponte Waisted Blazer
Nail power dressing with the Aligne Bonnie Ponte Waisted Blazer, a ponte curved sleeve blazer designed with a fitted silhouette and waist split for a flattering shape. It has an exposed placket with functional buttons down to the waist making it practical, comfy and chic.
Hobbs Mia Jacket
The Mia Jacket from Hobbs features single breasted peak lapels, a ticket pocket, and darting detail for a tailored fit. Made from recycled fibres, it’s machine washable and easy to look after. Also available is the matching Mia Skirt (£89) for a coordinated outfit à la Melania.
Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing Black Tailored Midaxi Skirt
With a split hem at the front, this tailored midaxi skirt from Tu Clothing has a structured shape and a chic length that falls between midi and maxi. Made from stretch fabric, it’s comfortable but smart enough for workwear or smart-casual occasions.
River Island Black Collarless Blazer
This collarless blazer from River Island has a clean, minimalist and modern design with a tailored fit and buttoned fastening. It includes side slip pockets, long sleeves, and is made from a midweight fabric. Pair it with a black pencil skirt like Melania or a great pair of denim jeans for a more casual look.
Next Black Tailored Pencil Skirt With Wool
This Next pencil skirt has chic tailored detailing and finishes at the knee. Added wool gives warmth and structure, and the split at the black makes it comfortable for moving around. It comes with a matching Black Tailored Single Breasted Blazer With Wool (£55) to wear together or as separates.
M&S Collection Waisted Utility Jacket
The M&S Collection Waisted Utility Jacket oozes style. The button-down design has a cinched waist and neat collar for a tailored look. Made from durable fabric with added stretch, it’s suitable for transitional weather and casual wear.
Reiss Haisley Tailored Pencil Skirt in Black
Pair this tailored pencil skirt from Reiss with the matching Haisley Single Breasted Suit Blazer (£238) for a sleek, coordinated look. Made from premium fabric, the skirt finishes slightly below the knee and looks incredible on all body shapes.
Taking cues from Melania Trump’s elegant state visit ensemble, it’s clear that an understated black skirt suit will never go out of fashion.
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