Mark Ashford, a 52-year-old classical guitarist from Leicestershire, is preparing for a third operation after his rare cancer was misdiagnosed for seven months.
What began as a seemingly harmless lump on his back in June 2023 quickly became a life-changing medical journey for him. Multiple medical professionals initially diagnosed the growth as a lipoma – a benign fatty tissue. Mark was referred to a skin centre in Wigston, Leicestershire.
In August 2023, an ultra-scan suggested again that the lump was lipoma and doctors felt this was not a problem. Mark was then referred to a sarcoma specialist for a second opinion in September 2023. The specialist also felt around the lump and diagnosed it as a ‘harmless lipoma’. However, he said if it was uncomfortable for Mark, he would remove it. He added that it was Mark’s call if he wanted it removed.
Mark decided to have it removed as it was uncomfortable to sleep. The operation was booked for January last year and he underwent surgery to remove the lump, which was then sent for analysis. It was when the analysis was done that doctors realised that what they were looking at was a rare and often aggressive cancer called sarcoma. Mark had been misdiagnosed with a harmless lump for seven months when it was, in fact, stage 3 sarcoma. Sarcomas are so rare they account for less than 1% of all cancer diagnoses.
‘Most people have no idea what sarcoma is,’ Mark explains. ‘Even my doctor friends have never encountered it. It’s rarely mentioned in the media.’
Mark’s specialist, with 20 years of experience, apologised for not recognising the cancer earlier. The doctors then found that not all of the tumour had been removed so Mark had to undergo an additional surgery in April to remove what was left of the tumour and surrounding cells.
However, a scan showed that the tumour has regrown, and Mark is now due to undergo a third operation this month.
Determined to make a difference, Mark has already raised £2,300 for charity Sarcoma UK through a challenging 15km swim challenge. He plans to participate in a triathlon this year to continue supporting cancer research.
Beyond his medical ordeal, Mark remains committed to his passion for music. As a classical guitarist who plays in a quartet and travels internationally, he’s approached his diagnosis with hope and positivity.
‘We tried to be cheerful,’ Mark says of telling his 16-year-old daughter about his diagnosis. ‘We discussed success stories and used examples like Princess Kate to show that medicine is advancing rapidly.’
Kerry Reeves-Kneip, Sarcoma UK’s Director of Fundraising and Communications, said: ‘Sarcoma is often described as the “forgotten cancer” because it is a rare but often devastating disease that slips under the radar of public awareness and medical understanding. Too often, patients like Mark experience delayed diagnoses because even healthcare professionals have limited knowledge about this complex cancer.
‘At Sarcoma UK, we are committed to changing this narrative by raising awareness, supporting research, and providing critical support for those affected. Early detection can be life-changing. If you notice any unusual lumps, persistent pain, or unexplained swelling, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice and ask specifically about sarcoma. We urge anyone concerned or seeking support to contact Sarcoma UK. Our dedicated support line offers information, guidance and a compassionate ear for patients and families navigating this challenging cancer.
‘Mark’s story is a powerful reminder that rare doesn’t mean insignificant. Every sarcoma story matters and together we can improve understanding, accelerate research and ultimately save lives.’
