The 23-year-old from Rathfriland was diagnosed with PAWS-GIST – a rare subtype of gastrointestinal stromal tumour that primarily affects young people – after months of being misdiagnosed. She hopes her role will help highlight the challenges patients face in securing an accurate diagnosis.
Carly’s appointment as ambassador comes just months after being crowned Miss Northern Ireland, with a cancer check-up appointment happening just hours before.
The battle began in 2023 for Carly, when constantly exhausted and “white as a ghost”. She was initially treated for blood loss, but continued to deteriorate.
The breakthrough in Carly’s treatment came in September 2023, when surgeons removed a seven-centimetre tumour from her stomach, leaving her with only 15 percent of the organ.
It was only when the tumour was analysed at the world-renowned Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge that the true diagnosis emerged: PAWS-GIST, an ultra-rare subtype of gastrointestinal stromal tumour.
“The main thing that has to change is attitude; it’s not just a money issue. It is a support issue for staff and patients,” Carly reflects on her experience. “Having cancer is hard enough, but being told you don’t have cancer when you do is even harder.”
Carly is now cancer-free and has returned to Ulster University, after taking a year out, to complete her degree in health psychology studies.
As Miss Northern Ireland, Carly will go on to compete in Miss World, giving her an International platform to raise awareness on sarcoma and the challenges patients face in getting a proper diagnosis and care.
“I don’t believe cancer is a death sentence – if you are lucky enough, it can be a life sentence because it really does teach you how to live,” Carly said.
“It teaches you how to cherish every single moment, never take a day for granted, and just push forward with absolute love in your heart,” she added.
“We are thrilled to welcome Carly as our newest ambassador. Her story highlights the critical challenges patients face in getting proper diagnosis and treatment for these rare cancers,” said Richard Davidson, Chief Executive of Sarcoma UK.
“Her determination to turn her experience into advocacy is extremely inspiring. Through her ambassadorship with Sarcoma UK, Carly Wilson represents not just the beauty and grace of Miss Northern Ireland, but the strength and determination of cancer survivors everywhere who choose to transform their experience into hope for others,” added Richard Davidson.
For more information or support, contact Sarcoma UK’s Support Line on 0808 801 0401 or visit sarcoma.org.uk.
Kate Harkin 
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