NHS Nurse’s Leg Amputation Sparks Urgent Awareness for Bone Cancer

A 26-year-old NHS nurse from Merseyside, Sophie Fay, underwent an above-the-knee amputation after experiencing persistent pain she initially attributed to a muscle injury. The diagnosis revealed a large tumour that had overtaken her calf, highlighting the importance of awareness around bone cancer symptoms.

In March 2024, while working as an intensive care nurse, Sophie began to notice a troubling ache behind her right knee. At first, she dismissed the discomfort as a result of starting a new training regimen with a personal trainer. Over the following months, the pain intensified, and her calf became noticeably swollen and warm to the touch. Her colleagues expressed concern, suggesting it could be a blood clot or muscular issue.

After the symptoms worsened, Sophie sought medical advice and underwent an MRI scan in November 2024. The results were alarming; the scan revealed a large tumour consuming “the entirety of (her) calf.” The mass was diagnosed as a rare form of soft-tissue cancer known as spindle cell sarcoma, which accounts for just 2-5 percent of all primary bone cancer cases, according to the Bone Cancer Research Trust.

Faced with a critical health situation, Sophie was informed that the only viable option was an above-the-knee amputation due to the tumour encasing vital blood vessels and nerves. She underwent the procedure in December 2024. Now, Sophie is learning to navigate life with a prosthetic limb and is determined to share her story to raise awareness about bone cancer, particularly during Bone Cancer Awareness Week, which runs from October 6 to 12.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Sophie expressed, “It was a massive shock, but it felt like the best chance of living a normal-ish life afterwards.” She emphasized the importance of becoming proactive in addressing health concerns, stating, “The only thing I wanted was to not have cancer anymore.”

Sophie initially attributed her leg pain to physical activity, which she believed was normal for someone engaged in fitness training. However, as her condition deteriorated, she developed a visible limp and was encouraged by peers to seek further medical evaluation.

A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis on November 29, 2024, a date that marked a pivotal shift in her life. Following her amputation, Sophie transitioned into a non-clinical role at the NHS, where she has found herself feeling more emotional after her experience.

She has become an advocate for greater awareness of bone cancer, urging healthcare professionals to recognize the signs that differentiate bone cancer from common muscular issues. “If sharing my story means bone cancer is spoken about more within healthcare, that’s the main thing,” Sophie stated.

Sophie is particularly keen on ensuring that young people do not overlook their symptoms, as she initially did. “It’s very rare, but knowing what to look out for or knowing the signs that put bone cancer apart from any kind of muscular issue would mean people like me don’t fall through the cracks.”

The Bone Cancer Research Trust continues to be a leading charity in the UK dedicated to addressing primary bone cancer and supporting those affected. For more information on their initiatives and resources, visit their website at bcrt.org.uk.

Sophie Fay’s story sheds light on the critical need for awareness and education regarding the symptoms of bone cancer, particularly among young adults. Her journey serves as a reminder that vigilance in health matters can make a significant difference in outcomes.