Just two months after receiving the all-clear from aggressive breast cancer, Rebecca Bell faced another devastating diagnosis. The 33-year-old sales manager from Rainham, Kent, says her GP dismissed the warning signs.
Initial Symptoms and Diagnosis
In April 2025, Rebecca discovered a grape-sized lump in her left breast. During her GP appointment at Marlowe Park Medical Centre in Rochester, she also mentioned persistent shoulder blade pain. However, she was reassured the two issues were not linked and told it was 'one problem, one appointment'.
Following scans and tests in May 2025, doctors confirmed she had triple-negative breast cancer, a type affecting about 15 percent of breast cancer patients. The tumour measured 95mm by 75mm. She immediately began treatment, and by December 2025, the tumour had shrunk to 75mm by 55mm.
Treatment and All-Clear
After surgery and gruelling radiotherapy, Rebecca was given the all-clear in February 2026. Despite the 'heartbreak' of her engagement ending around the same time, she felt positive about the future.
However, in April 2026, a PET scan for a drug trial revealed the cancer had spread to her bones. Doctors confirmed that the shoulder blade pain she had previously reported was a sign of metastasis.
Living with Stage 4 Cancer
In June 2026, Rebecca restarted chemotherapy and immunotherapy. She is now determined to adapt to life 'living with cancer'. She said: 'I didn't really want to tell anyone that it had spread – I didn't want to be known as the sick one again. Last time there was an end point, but now there isn't.'
Doctors have told Rebecca she will most likely remain on treatment for the rest of her life. Immunotherapy has also caused an underactive thyroid, leaving her feeling 'even more' tired and 'puffy'.
Fundraiser and Practice Response
Rebecca's sister, Jennie, has set up a fundraiser to help get her the 'best possible care'. A spokesperson from Marlowe Park Medical Centre said: 'While we are unable to comment on the details of an individual patient's care due to patient confidentiality obligations, we recognise that concerns about healthcare experiences can be deeply distressing for those involved. We take any concerns raised seriously and review them through the appropriate processes.'
To donate to Rebecca's fundraiser, visit: gofundme.com/f/she-was-planning-a-weddingnow-fighting-stage-4-cancer
