Runner's Heel Pain Hides Rare Bone Cancer

Christine Lote, a keen runner, initially dismissed her heel pain and swelling as a sports injury. Doctors diagnosed tendonitis, but symptoms persisted for years. A subsequent MRI in January 2022 revealed chondrosarcoma, a rare bone cancer affecting approximately 700 Britons annually. This diagnosis came as she was on maternity leave, having recently welcomed her first child.

Christine's cancer does not respond to chemotherapy or radiotherapy, requiring surgery. She underwent an operation to remove the mass in early 2022. Although she initially returned to normal life, swelling in her heel and ankle reappeared during her second pregnancy. After her second daughter was born in February 2023, a scan confirmed the cancer's return, leading to the amputation of her leg below the knee in June 2023.

Despite adapting to life with a prosthetic, further scans revealed the cancer had spread to her lungs, classifying it as incurable stage 4. Given a five-year prognosis, Christine now dedicates her time to creating memories with her two daughters. She is also participating in a 10k Race for Life event to raise money for Cancer Research and to demonstrate her resilience.

Her most recent scans in the lead-up to May 2026 have been clear, placing her in a stable condition for the time being. Christine and her husband Damien are focused on cherishing their time together, with Christine writing monthly letters to her children to preserve memories.