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Teacher's Cancer Battle After 20 Doctor Visits
26 Jan
Summary
- A PE teacher faced a 16-month ordeal with 20 doctor visits.
- She experienced swallowing difficulties that were initially undiagnosed.
- She was finally diagnosed with stage four oesophageal cancer.
Victoria Rodwell, a 31-year-old former Channel swimmer, has spoken out about a harrowing ordeal where doctors failed to diagnose her cancer for 16 months. Rodwell, who previously enjoyed an active lifestyle including scuba diving and running half-marathons, began experiencing swallowing difficulties.
Over a period of 16 months, she consulted doctors on 20 separate occasions. Despite her persistent symptoms and multiple tests, she was repeatedly told that nothing was wrong. The delayed diagnosis meant her condition progressed significantly.
Finally, on January 15, 2026, Rodwell received the devastating news that she had been diagnosed with stage four oesophageal cancer. Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS has acknowledged her concerns and stated they are looking into the matter, though they could not comment on individual patient cases.
