Melissa Fellows, a 38-year-old mother of three from Hull, was diagnosed with a rare cancer after doctors dismissed a growing lump on her stomach for ten years.
She first noticed the small lump in 2009. Her GP told her it was a harmless lipoma, a common fatty growth. Over time, the lump became larger and painful. During two pregnancies and several medical visits, she was repeatedly reassured it was nothing serious. No detailed scans were carried out.
By 2019, the mass had grown so large that she struggled with daily tasks. Further tests, including scans and a biopsy, finally revealed the truth: she had liposarcoma, a rare cancer that develops in fat tissue. Surgeons removed a 30cm tumor weighing over three stone. Doctors later confirmed it was one of the largest they had seen.
Despite surgery and chemotherapy, the cancer had already spread. She was told her condition was terminal.
Melissa and her husband took legal action. Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust admitted that earlier investigation could have led to a cure. The family received a six-figure settlement, along with a formal apology.
Now, Melissa is calling for greater awareness. She urges people not to ignore lumps that grow or cause pain and encourages patients to push for proper scans and specialist referrals. Her message is clear: early testing can save lives.