A schoolboy's dream of becoming a professional boxer was shattered when he woke up paralysed from the waist down, collapsing "like jelly" to the floor. James Lewis, 13, was diagnosed with an 18cm benign tumour entwined in his spinal cord after losing all feeling in his lower body.
Sudden Onset of Symptoms
James had previously been diagnosed with scoliosis, a condition causing the spine to curve sideways. His symptoms worsened over time, leading to loss of balance and control of his bladder and bowel. In March 2021, he woke up unable to feel his legs. His father, also named James Lewis, recalled: "He tried to stand up and fell to the floor like jelly. The hospital revealed he had a spinal cord tumour."
Medical Challenges
The non-cancerous tumour, half the length of his spine, had haemorrhaged and compressed his spinal cord. Doctors cannot surgically remove it because it is "entwined" with the cord. James underwent decompression treatment and chemotherapy, but relapses occurred. In January 2026, after losing leg, bowel, and bladder function, he had another surgery and is now in rehabilitation, with plans to resume chemotherapy.
Impact on Boxing Dreams
James had trained at a boxing gym twice a week since age five, but the tumour caused loss of proprioception and footwork, forcing him to quit. His father said: "He wanted to be a professional boxer. He just completely lost his footwork." The family found a new passion in fishing, which James can enjoy despite his condition.
Community Support
A GoFundMe page was set up by a member of the fishing community to raise £4,500 for an electric wheelchair. So far, over £5,000 has been raised. The father expressed gratitude: "All the donations are much appreciated - it's amazing."
Understanding Scoliosis
The NHS describes scoliosis as a sideways curvature of the spine. Signs include a visible curve, leaning to one side, uneven shoulders, and ill-fitting clothes. Treatment depends on age and severity, ranging from braces to surgery.
