NHS Nurse Shares Journey After Leg Amputation Due to Tumour

A 26-year-old NHS nurse, Sophie Fay, underwent an above-the-knee amputation after a painful discovery revealed a large tumour in her leg. Initially attributing the discomfort to a muscle injury, Fay’s condition escalated, leading to a diagnosis of spindle cell sarcoma, a rare soft-tissue tumour.

The incident began in March 2024 while Fay was working in intensive care. She noticed an “aching” pain behind her right knee, which she dismissed as a result of her recent training with a personal trainer. As the months progressed, the pain intensified, and her calf became swollen and warm to the touch. Concerned colleagues suggested she seek medical attention, which prompted Fay to investigate further.

By November 2024, an MRI scan confirmed that a tumour occupied “the entirety of (her) calf.” The diagnosis of spindle cell sarcoma, which typically affects individuals over the age of 40 and constitutes only 2-5 percent of primary bone cancer cases, shocked both Fay and her medical team. According to the Bone Cancer Research Trust, this rare condition emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms that could indicate serious health issues.

Facing the Reality of Cancer

After extensive examination, doctors informed Fay that the tumour encased vital blood vessels and nerves, leaving amputation as the only viable option. In December 2024, she underwent the procedure, marking a significant turning point in her life. Adapting to a prosthetic, she is now working in a non-clinical role within the NHS.

Reflecting on her experience, Fay remarked, “It was a massive shock but it felt like the best chance of living a normal-ish life afterwards.” She emphasizes the importance of survival mode during her recovery, focusing on overcoming the challenges posed by her diagnosis.

Fay’s story is part of the Bone Cancer Awareness Week, which runs from October 6 to 12, 2024. She aims to raise awareness about the symptoms of bone cancer, hoping to prevent others from experiencing similar delays in diagnosis. “If sharing my story means bone cancer is spoken about more within healthcare, that’s the main thing,” she stated.

Raising Awareness and Preventing Delays

Sophie Fay’s journey underscores the necessity of vigilance in recognizing unusual bodily symptoms. Many patients, especially younger individuals, may dismiss signs of serious conditions as mere muscle strains. “It’s very rare, but knowing what to look for would mean people like me don’t fall through the cracks,” she added.

The Bone Cancer Research Trust plays a vital role in educating the public about the signs of bone cancer and supporting research initiatives. With Fay’s firsthand experience, she hopes to foster more conversations around this critical issue within the healthcare community.

For more information about bone cancer and its symptoms, visit the Bone Cancer Research Trust at bcrt.org.uk. Sophie Fay’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of health awareness and the potential life-saving impact of early detection.