Brian had experienced occasional pain in his leg for some time, gradually worsening throughout 2024. After investigations confirmed the lesion had grown significantly, he was referred to The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in January 2025.
Following specialist scans and an intense biopsy, it was confirmed that Brian had chondrosarcoma.
“Chondrosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that affects the inner part of the bone. There is no treatment that will destroy the cancer. Only removal of the affected bone will prevent it spreading.”
Shortly after receiving his diagnosis, Brian met Professor Abudu, who would perform the surgery. Professor Abudu specialises in oncology surgeries. He is a long-standing outstanding surgeon at The ROH, and has supported many families through similar journeys.
“Professor Abudu is a man of great kindness, empathy and humour who was able to reassure us at a very difficult time.”
In March 2025, Brian underwent major surgery to remove the cancer. His femur and hip were replaced with a metal implant to ensure all the cancer was removed.
” I was immobile for some weeks, but the care and attention I received at ROH was wonderful.”
“There were times when the pain was so great and my progress seemed so slow. I did not seem to be making progress, and the fact that I needed personal care was very traumatic for me.”
Throughout his stay, Brian recalled the support of ROH staff made all the difference. A key part of Brian’s recovery was the support he received from the hospital’s physiotherapy team.
“The physiotherapists were wonderful in helping me to first get out of bed, then to move about, and finally to climb stairs.”
“They were all very supportive but firm in their approach. They took no prisoners!”
Being treated at a national specialist centre also meant Brian and his family had to travel a considerable distance for his care. Living in Hull, approximately 100 miles from Birmingham, added another layer of challenge during an already difficult time. While Brian was recovering in hospital, his wife was fortunate to be able to stay with family in Kidderminster. Even then, she faced a daily journey of around 40 minutes each way to visit him.
Without that support network, the family could have faced significant accommodation costs to remain close to the hospital during Brian’s recovery, highlighting one of the often-unseen pressures experienced by patients and families who require specialist treatment far from home.
After being discharged from Birmingham and returning home to Hull, Brian continued his recovery with the support of his wife, Valerie.
“My dear wife, Valerie, then took over all the nursing care and looked after me wonderfully. I was so grateful to have her care and support. I think the role of carers is greatly undervalued. I could not have managed without her care and support.”
Three months later, Brian returned to ROH for an intensive week of physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. This is something routinely given to oncology patients to help progress their recovery further.
“Staff were very professional and supportive. I made significant progress during that week and was much more mobile upon my discharge.”