A mother in the UK was finally diagnosed with aggressive tongue cancer after her symptoms, which began nearly two decades ago, were repeatedly dismissed by doctors. Sharon Moreby, 54, had noticed a white, spider web-like patch on her tongue while brushing her teeth but was told for years that it was harmless, despite it worsening over time.
The Symptoms and Initial Dismissal
Sharon first observed the white mark on her tongue almost 20 years ago, but doctors repeatedly assured her it was a non-cancerous condition called dysplasia. Despite undergoing eight biopsies and laser treatments over the years, her symptoms continued to worsen. Sharon’s condition was dismissed by one surgeon as a result of “biting her tongue” during sleep, prompting her to wear dental braces for two years—advice that ultimately proved unhelpful.
Sharon Moreby said her symptoms were dismissed for years (Kennedy News and Media)
As time went on, Sharon’s symptoms became more severe. She began experiencing earaches, jaw pain, difficulty swallowing, and developed a new, unexplained lump on her neck. Despite these alarming signs, her concerns were brushed off by doctors, with some suggesting that the issues were related to menopause.
The Turning Point and Diagnosis
It wasn’t until August 2023, when Sharon underwent another biopsy, that she received the devastating news: she had aggressive HPV-related tongue cancer. Reflecting on her earlier symptoms, Sharon said, “I had noticed a little, white patch on the left side of my tongue that looked like a spider web. I didn’t think much of it. I wasn’t overly concerned. But when I read about cancers in a magazine, I thought it was worth checking out.”
For years, Sharon’s biopsies came back clear, leaving her to wonder why her condition was not being properly addressed. She later realized that her growing symptoms and recurring white patch may have been a sign of cancer all along. Sharon believes that she may have had cancer much earlier but was never properly diagnosed due to dismissive attitudes from healthcare professionals.
The mom noticed an unexplained lump on her neck (Kennedy News and Media)
Treatment and Recovery
After being properly diagnosed, Sharon underwent a neck dissection to remove the cancer from her mouth. She then had a tongue reconstruction using tissue from her left arm. Fortunately, Sharon is now in remission, but she feels deeply let down by the healthcare system for failing to act sooner. She expressed regret that it took so many years to receive the right diagnosis, saying, “I don’t know if I’d be here if I had left it much longer.”
Sharon now urges others to trust their instincts and continue pushing for answers when it comes to their health. “Follow your gut and keep pushing with doctors,” she advises, reflecting on her long and painful journey to getting the right diagnosis.
Sharon’s story highlights the importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system, particularly when symptoms persist or worsen. Despite her frustration with the delays in diagnosis, Sharon is grateful for the support she received and remains hopeful for the future.
Sharon is now in remission (Kennedy News and Media)
If you’ve been affected by cancer or need support, contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or use their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.
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