A mother from Suffolk is rallying support for her teenage son who has been diagnosed with an extremely rare and aggressive cancer. Gemma Lodge, who runs a dog care business, has been on an emotional journey since her son Callum, aged 16, began experiencing intense back and hip pain, initially believed to be linked to a previous road accident.
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Gemma described the onset of her son’s discomfort, which started in April 2025, six months after he was struck by a van while jogging. At that time, Callum suffered from knee and ligament injuries, making it appear logical that his recent symptoms were a continuation of those earlier issues. “We thought it was the accident,” Gemma recalled. “All our friends were saying the same thing: ‘I bet it’s to do with the accident.’”
However, as Callum’s condition deteriorated and he became increasingly bedbound during his summer holidays, Gemma grew increasingly concerned. “I had an instinct that something wasn’t right,” she said, highlighting that Callum rarely complained about pain. “He’s not one to moan about anything, so when he did, I knew I had to dig deeper.”
Determined to uncover the cause of her son’s troubling symptoms, Gemma sought a second opinion from a physiotherapist client. Following this reassessment, Callum was promptly referred for an MRI scan, which revealed a significant mass on his spine. The subsequent diagnosis in January 2026 was a devastating blow for the family: Callum had stage 4 sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma (SEF), a particularly rare form of soft tissue sarcoma.
“It’s your worst nightmare,” Gemma stated, reflecting on the harrowing period of uncertainty before the diagnosis was confirmed. “That feeling as a mother, not knowing what was wrong, was terrifying,” she added. Following the diagnosis, doctors discovered that the cancer had spread to Callum’s left kidney, necessitating surgery.
Now, Callum is undergoing immunotherapy, but due to the rarity of SEF, treatment options remain a daunting prospect for the family. “The rarity of it is staggering; there are likely only two people in the country with this condition, and Callum is one of them,” Gemma disclosed. “It’s incredibly hard to hear that it’s stage 4 – it feels like the worst news ever.”
Despite the overwhelming challenges he faces, Callum continues to exhibit remarkable resilience. “I’m so proud of him,” Gemma stated, highlighting that he is still engaged in his school exams and maintaining a sense of normalcy. “Through all of this, he doesn’t lose his sense of humour and keeps his spirit high.”
To assist with the extensive medical expenses and possible future care, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign. The funds will help ensure Callum has access to specialist treatments that may not be covered by the government following his initial care. “This journey isn’t just about battling cancer; it’s about providing him with the best possible opportunities and experiences,” Gemma noted in the campaign’s description.
Despite the gravity of his situation, Callum remains resolute about living his life to the fullest. Gemma remarked, “He still manages to go to the gym, spend time with his friends, and work hard in school as much as he can. He continually finds the strength to lift those around him.”
The family’s story underscores the emotional toll and practical challenges faced by those battling rare cancers. As they navigate this difficult path, Gemma’s relentless advocacy and her son’s indomitable spirit stand as a testament to their love and commitment to one another.