**Mother’s Unexpected Cancer Diagnosis Sparks Call for Early Detection**
A Northern Irish mother is urging others to be vigilant about their health after a surprising discovery led to a life-altering cancer diagnosis. Kirstie Smyth, 39, from Ballymartin, first noticed a minor lump behind her knee while sitting on her sofa one evening in January 2023. What began as a seemingly trivial sign quickly escalated into an ordeal that would challenge her physically and emotionally.
Initially, Ms Smyth assumed the unusual bump was harmless. Her general practitioner suggested it was likely a raised lymph node, dismissing the need for concern. However, over the ensuing weeks, she observed the lump growing larger. “It was such a shock to see it get bigger. I realised then I couldn’t ignore it any more,” Ms Smyth recalled.
After returning to seek further medical advice, Kirstie received a resounding blow: she was diagnosed with sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that often originates in the body’s connective tissues. The diagnosis in October 2023 at Ulster Hospital came after numerous tests, including staging CT scans, to determine if the cancer had spread throughout her body.
“The hardest part was the uncertainty,” said Ms Smyth. “My mind immediately went to my children and my husband. We didn’t know what the future would hold.” She credits her sarcoma nurse, Jill Kennedy, for providing both information and much-needed emotional support during those harrowing early days.
Ms Smyth underwent an extensive course of treatment, including three major surgeries over a 10-week period. One operation, a wide excision, involved removing a substantial area from behind her knee, followed by two further surgeries for wider incisions and skin grafts. “I hadn’t realised how dependent I would become,” she shared. “From being totally self-sufficient, suddenly I needed help with everything – even getting to daily hospital appointments for six weeks of radiotherapy since I couldn’t drive.”
The intensive treatments, both surgical and radiological, took a significant toll on her mobility and independence. Despite the physical and mental exhaustion, Kirstie remains grateful for the continuous support from medical staff and her family. Now, she attends regular chest x-rays every three months, as sarcoma has a tendency to metastasise to the lungs. “It’s a constant worry, but I’m fortunate to be so closely monitored,” she explained.
Family has been a critical pillar during Kirstie’s journey. Her husband, Connor, and her three children – Ben (19), Ollie (13), and Amber Rose – have provided encouragement and motivation. Ben praised his mother’s resilience, saying, “She’s my role model. To see her strength through all of this has been inspiring for all of us.”
As she continues her recovery, Ms Smyth has become passionate about raising awareness for sarcoma, which she labels the ‘forgotten cancer’. According to her, many people have never heard of the disease, despite its potentially aggressive nature and the importance of early detection. “If you find any lump, even a painless one, get it examined. Keep pushing for answers if you sense something isn’t right. Early detection can make all the difference,” she advised.
Medical professionals echo her sentiment. Jill Kennedy, Sarcoma Clinical Nurse Specialist at South Eastern Trust, highlighted that July’s Sarcoma Awareness Month is a crucial opportunity to educate the public about recognising symptoms swiftly. “Many patients face delays in diagnosis, and we’re working with GPs to change that. Early intervention is vital for survival,” she said.
Sarcomas, while rare, can often go undetected until they have progressed significantly, making public awareness and timely medical guidance of utmost importance. Symptoms vary but often include unexplained lumps, swelling, pain, or restricted movement.
Ms Smyth’s ordeal serves as both a sobering reminder and a beacon of hope, underscoring the necessity of listening to one’s body and advocating for health. With ongoing progress in awareness and support, her story brings encouragement to others navigating similar battles.