Stand up to Sarcoma

Danielle recently represented families in Sarcoma related negligence cases whereby earlier detection could have improved the treatment of one patient, and saved the life of another.

Mr Hicks was diagnosed with Ollier’s disease as a toddler, with the resulting weakness in his left leg susceptible to numerous breaks and injury over the years. After several operations, and much pain, it wasn’t until 2009 that a cancerous tumour was discovered in his knee, requiring amputation.

In 2011 it was discovered that tumours had spread to his lungs and extensive surgical treatment was needed, and is continuing. At no point were Mr Hicks or his family told that Ollier’s disease could lead to cancer, and the condition was not monitored closely enough to detect the development.

Mrs Butters first alerted her GP to a pea-sized lump on her forearm in November 2012, but by the time she received results of an MRI scan the lump had grown to six centimetres and by the time she was seen again in June 2013 it was over 20 centimetres in length.

The large spindle cell sarcoma that was discovered resulted in major surgery and she lost the use of her arm, depending on her family for care. Physiotherapy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy couldn’t prevent metastatic sarcoma deposits in her lungs and sadly no further surgery could save her.

Danielle said: “Unfortunately, we have seen the impact Sarcoma has had on families throughout North East Lincolnshire. Awareness of the condition and early diagnosis is essential and anyone with unremitting symptoms should always continue to raise their concerns with their healthcare professionals.”

The delays in treatment in both cases were due to negligence by the medical professionals involved, and Danielle was able to win compensation in both cases.