Migraines were the first sign of thyroid cancer for one woman.

A Melbourne mother’s severe migraines in late 2022 led to an MRI that found a neck lump; biopsy confirmed thyroid cancer and surgeons removed her thyroid and affected lymph nodes, and doctors reported she was clear of cancer by mid-2023.

Deborah Terkely, a 42-year-old mother from Melbourne, experienced an unusually severe migraine in late 2022 that did not resolve. Her regular GP initially attributed the pain to stress or tension and prescribed pain relief, but a second opinion led to an MRI that found a suspicious lump in her neck. A biopsy confirmed thyroid cancer, and she underwent major surgery followed by radioactive iodine treatment. She reports gradual recovery and a return to work and family life. Key facts: - An MRI ordered after persistent headaches identified a suspicious lump in the neck. - Biopsy results confirmed thyroid cancer, and in January 2023 surgeons removed the entire thyroid and 70 lymph nodes, 20 of which contained cancer cells. - She received radioactive iodine therapy after surgery and by mid-2023 doctors reported she was clear of cancer. - Recovery involved prolonged pain and limited mobility for months; she reports using supplements and topical care during recovery and says she has since resumed exercising and working. - Deborah now raises awareness about thyroid cancer and has said she encourages others to seek testing if they feel something is wrong. Summary: The diagnosis and treatment affected her daily life and priorities, and she reports ongoing awareness of the possibility of recurrence. Doctors reported she was clear of cancer by mid-2023 and she has returned to family life and work. Undetermined at this time.