About Matthew

matthew22

Matthew's story

In 2019, during his second year at University, Matthew started having pains in his left shoulder. For months this was put down as muscle strain and he endured physio sessions which did nothing but increased his discomfort. Following numerous visits to his GP he was sent for an x-ray in November 2019. The results of this x-ray showed a tumour on the humerus bone, which had caused a pathological fracture. Following tests in December 20219, at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham, Matthew was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in his left shoulder.

Start of Matthew’s Treatment

Treatment began in early January 2020. During the first cycle of chemo there were many hurdles and setbacks, but Matthew never faltered, he kept his resolve and determination to succeed. During this first cycle we were informed that the cancer had spread to his lungs and surgery would be required following chemo. It was at this stage Matthew had to suspend his studies as he knew he had to focus on his treatment. His second cycle of chemo went far better, however further scans showed that due to the position of the tumour in his shoulder it would not be possible to surgically remove it and the only option was for his left arm to be amputated. Another major setback, but Matthew still didn’t lose his determination.

Matthew’s Amputation

I spent a week with Matthew at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham in April 2020 where the amputation took place. The position of the tumour resulted in a forequarter amputation, where the arm and a large part of the shoulder are removed.
During that week we laughed and joked and planned how he and we would adapt to a new way of life. Again, he never lost sight of recovery and was such a pleasure to be around, always polite, never forgetting his manners to all the staff, despite the pain he was often in.
The chemo continued for the next 5 months and was followed by two thoracotomy operations to remove the lung tumours. This marked the end of 11 months of treatment, 11 months during which we saw how impressive a son we have, one who still, despite everything he was going through, would put others before himself, a truly remarkable person.

Back to University

Matthew returned to his studies as soon as he could and began living his life to the full. He once again helped out with the Brass Band and, when covid restrictions allowed, we followed the Forest and Nottingham Cricket, enjoying as much entertainment as he could manage.

September’s Routine Scan

Sadly, after a routine scan in September 2021 it was evident tumours had returned to his lung, and chemo re-started in October. Unfortunately treatment was hindered due to a severe infection Matthew picked up. Although his health started to deteriorate quickly, he remained focused, right to end.

Mathew sadly passed away on 16th February 2022 with his family at his side, still smiling and joking when he could.

Prior to passing Matthew wished for his body to be left to medical science, a decision that truly showed how selfless a person he was. His body was accepted by a specialist cancer surgery centre at the National Repository Centre at Nottingham University Hospitals, so he managed to return to the place he called “home”.
Matthew left behind myself, his dad Gary, his mum Carolyn, his twin brother Jonathan, and older brother Daniel. To say we are devastated is not an overstatement, there is a massive hole in our family that will never be filled – we miss him every day.

However, Matthew’s courage, determination and positivity were amazing during his treatment, he never let it get him down. He was always available to friends and family for support, help and advice when needed. We hope that by working with our partner charities we can give patients and families support during difficult times, upholding the values and principles Matthew held so dear.