**Dog’s Unintended Collision Leads to Early Cancer Detection for Staffordshire Woman**
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In a remarkable turn of events, a woman from Staffordshire, England, has credited her Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Gertie, with saving her life after an unexpected encounter revealed a serious health issue. Lesley Goodburn, aged 61, was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer in December 2024, following a chance incident involving her beloved dog.
Goodburn explained that while at home with Gertie, the dog inadvertently collided with her chest during playtime. This seemingly innocuous moment led her to discover an unusual ridge in her right breast, prompting her to seek medical attention. In November 2024, after consulting her doctor, she received the shocking diagnosis of lobular breast cancer, a type she had previously not been familiar with.
Lobular breast cancer is known for its elusive nature. Unlike more common forms of breast cancer that typically present as lumps, lobular breast cancer can often go undetected as it doesn’t always form a noticeable mass. This characteristic typically complicates diagnosis and means that it may evade detection in standard screenings such as mammograms.
Reflecting on her experience, Goodburn remarked, “The surprise was that it wasn’t a lump, it was nothing that I’d felt. If the dog hadn’t bashed my chest, maybe no one would ever have known it was there.” This fortuitous event was a turning point in her health journey, leading her to undergo neoadjuvant chemotherapy from January to July 2025. Following this treatment, she underwent surgery and radiotherapy in August, marking a significant intervention in her battle against cancer.
Today, Goodburn is relishing a life free from cancer and passionately advocates for awareness of lobular breast cancer. She now serves as a trustee for Lobular Breast Cancer UK, a charity dedicated to increasing awareness of this less commonly known form of the disease. On the charity’s website, she expresses her hope that continued monitoring will help maintain her current state of remission.
Goodburn is keen to share the symptoms of lobular breast cancer, raising awareness among women about the signs to look out for. These include unusual breast pain, skin texture changes, dimpling of the skin, and lumps in the underarm area. She also highlights additional indicators such as nipple discharge, skin discoloration, and any changes in breast size or shape.
A study by the American Cancer Society published last year predicted that around 33,600 women in the U.S. would receive a lobular breast cancer diagnosis in 2025. The findings outline the distinctive characteristics of this form of cancer, which can contribute to delayed detection and poor prognosis in advanced stages. Goodburn’s personal story highlights the importance of recognising these symptoms early and seeking medical advice.
In her advocacy efforts, Goodburn urges women to be proactive about their health. “Be brave. It might make the difference between being here in five years’ time and not,” she advises. Her experience underscores the critical role awareness plays in the early detection of cancer, potentially saving lives.
In addition to her work on lobular breast cancer awareness, Goodburn has been actively fundraising for various cancer-related charities, including Pancreatic Cancer UK. This mission was sparked by the tragic loss of her husband, Seth, who died from pancreatic cancer in 2014 shortly after his diagnosis, which occurred just 33 days prior to his passing.
Goodburn’s story has not only shed light on the challenges of detecting lobular breast cancer but also serves as a potent reminder of the unexpected ways in which life can change. With Gertie’s innocent affection leading to a life-saving diagnosis, Goodburn embodies resilience and hope, inspiring others to stay vigilant about their health.