Kelly Hashemi, a devoted mother and primary school teacher from Gateshead, was just 37 when she began experiencing troubling symptoms including irregular bleeding, bloating, and anxiety. Despite repeatedly seeking medical advice, these signs were initially dismissed as perimenopause, leading to a delayed diagnosis of stage three ovarian cancer.
Kelly’s husband, Arya Hashemi, 42, recalled how their concerns grew as symptoms persisted. Frustrated by the lack of answers, Kelly opted for a private scan which confirmed the cancer had already advanced significantly.
Following the diagnosis in July 2022, Kelly underwent two extensive surgeries to control the spread of the disease. These operations included a full hysterectomy as well as removal of parts of her liver, bladder, and diaphragm. The recovery was arduous, involving a fortnight in intensive care and months of rehabilitation before she began chemotherapy.
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Despite her fight, the cancer returned later in 2023. Kelly chose to have further surgery, hoping to extend time with her daughter, Tabitha, then aged 13. Unfortunately, the cancer continued to progress, and Kelly was admitted to St Bede’s Hospice in Gateshead, where she spent the last three months of her life before passing away in July 2025, aged 41.
Arya described Kelly as a passionate environmentalist, vegetarian, and a cherished figure in the local community and school. “She was the most patient and loving mother, with endless energy and dedication,” he said. The family lived in Low Fell, Gateshead.
In memory of Kelly, Arya is participating in the Great North Run this September to raise funds for St Bede’s Hospice, which provided compassionate care during her final months. His online campaign has already raised over £5,500.
Arya urged others to advocate strongly for their own health, emphasising the importance of early detection in ovarian cancer. “If you catch ovarian cancer early, it’s treatable; late detection can be fatal. If something feels wrong, fight for your health because no one else will do it for you,” he said.
The couple leaves behind their daughter, Tabitha, who has shown remarkable resilience. Arya highlighted how she uses school and sports, including representing the region in hockey and netball, as a way to cope with the loss.
This story reflects the critical need for awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms and timely diagnosis-particularly when early symptoms may be mistaken for less serious conditions like perimenopause.