Jess Lawson

Cohorts: 30s-40s (rare)

Condition: Acromegaly (pituitary tumour)

Snapshot

Name: Jess Lawson
Age range: 34
Life stage: Early perimenopause / hormonal disruption in her 30s
Location: Cardiff, Wales (urban outskirts, moderate access to NHS specialists)
Occupation: Freelance photographer and editor — flexible schedule but relies on precision work and client deadlines
Relationship and family context: Married, one child (6 years old); thinking about future fertility but cycle disruption makes timing unpredictable

Health Context

Relevant condition(s): Acromegaly (pituitary adenoma → excess growth hormone)
Density of condition(s): Rare
Key symptoms experienced: Enlarged hands and feet, coarse facial features, headaches, cycle disruption, fatigue, joint pain
Severity and duration: Moderate — symptoms have been gradually worsening over 2-3 years; cycle irregularities began around 33
Diagnosed or suspected: Suspected after GP noticed hand/foot changes and ordered IGF-1 blood test; MRI confirmed pituitary tumour
Current treatments or management: Monitoring via endocrinologist; surgical option discussed but she is delaying while exploring medication (somatostatin analogues)
Comorbidities or related factors: Mild sleep apnea, joint stiffness, occasional mood swings; anxiety about fertility and long-term health

Triggers and barriers

Main triggers that worsen symptoms: Stress, irregular sleep, missed medication, lack of exercise
Barriers to seeking care: Rare condition → limited specialist access; symptoms are subtle and gradual, so hard to prioritise care; fear of surgery
Information gaps and misconceptions: Didnʼt know growth hormone could disrupt menstrual cycles; unaware of long-term fertility impacts; confused by conflicting online info about treatments
Emotional drivers and concerns: Anxiety about fertility and family planning; feeling self-conscious about physical changes; frustration with slow diagnosis and lack of awareness

Goals and needs

Primary health goals: Regulate menstrual cycles, reduce hormone-related fatigue, and protect fertility
Secondary lifestyle goals: Maintain energy and focus for freelance work; reduce visible physical changes that cause self-consciousness; feel in control of healthcare decisions
What “better” looks like to them: Predictable cycles, clearer understanding of hormone treatment options, reassurance around fertility, fewer physical symptoms impacting daily life

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