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  1. Home
  2. Real life stories

Real life stories

These amazing people have faced mouth cancer.

Their stories give us an insight into the impact that mouth cancer has - not only on their own life, but also the lives of loved ones.

Paul Roebuck

Paul Roebuck

Psychotherapist Paul was on holiday with his wife in Las Vegas and woke up with blood in his mouth. He decided to get checked out by his dentist, who immediately knew something was seriously wrong. Read more

Published: 20th October, 2019

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: Anonymised User

Stephanie Leach

Stephanie Leach

Stephanie's story should serve as a reminder that mouth cancer can sadly affect all of us. Even if you don't fall into any of the risk factors, you should still be aware of the warning signs. Read more

Published: 26th October, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: Anonymised User

Laura Taylor

Laura Taylor

"Age is just a number, I’m 23 a non-smoker and don’t drink yet I still got the mouth cancer, it only takes 45 seconds to check your mouth, DO IT!! I was only 23, I should be hearing about my son’s day at nursery, not cancer." Read more

Published: 15th February, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: Anonymised User

Ali Campbell

Ali Campbell

Ali Campbell from Dorset, found an ulcer in her mouth at the start of 2017. When it turned out that it was mouth cancer she embarked on an incredible journey which has so far taken many twists and turns. Read more

Published: 2nd January, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: Anonymised User

Rachel Parsons

Rachel Parsons

On Boxing Day, Rachel Parsons first noticed a lump in her mouth. Having heard of mouth cancer and the symptoms, she knew she needed to get checked out. Read more

Published: 2nd January, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Victor Middleton

Victor Middleton

Victor was diagnosed with mouth cancer on 23 December. A smoker and drinker, Victor was shocked to discover that cancer was also linked to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Read more

Published: 2nd January, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: David Arnold

David Shakesby

David Shakesby

The fight against mouth cancer is a hard and difficult task but with his family and friends by his side every step of the way David Shakesby was determined to emulate his sci-fi idols and battle it bravely. Read more

Published: 2nd January, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Christine Gundry

Christine Gundry

As a PhD student researching cancer, Christine had heard time and time again the latest cancer statistics. In her own words, Christine gives us her own unique perspective – patient and researcher. Read more

Published: 2nd January, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Amanda Goulden

Amanda Goulden

Amanda from Bolton was diagnosed with mouth cancer when she was just 34. Here, in her own words, is her powerful and heart-breaking story of her experience with being diagnosed and undergoing treatment and why she feels it is best to see your dentist if you are concerned about anything. Read more

Published: 1st January, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: Anonymised User

Sally Bragg

Sally Bragg

Sally Bragg has a very different perception of life after being diagnosed with cancer of the cheek 20 years ago. At the time, Sally had never heard of mouth cancer. Read more

Published: 1st January, 2018

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Gordon Mullen

Gordon Mullen

In 2006, Gordon knew something wasn’t quite right in his mouth, yet he couldn’t quite put his finger on what it was. Fortunately for him, during a routine check up, his dentist could. Read more

Published: 31st December, 2017

Updated: 2nd November, 2022

Author: David Arnold

Back to top

Latest

  • Key opinion leaders reach an evidence-based consensus on mouthwash use

    Key opinion leaders reach an evidence-based consensus on mouthwash use

    A panel of leading dental experts has agreed an evidence-based consensus statement on the role of mouthwash as part of maintaining good oral health between dental appointments.

  • Oral Health: From Treatment to Prevention

    Oral Health: From Treatment to Prevention

    This landmark report reflects on five decades of progress in oral health and looks ahead to the future of dentistry, prevention and public health in the UK.

  • Smile Month Prevention Pledge

    Smile Month Prevention Pledge

    Sign our Smile Month Prevention Pledge, to call for a healthier, fairer and more prevention-focused future.

  • Smile Month launches 50th campaign with nationwide Wall of Smiles celebration

    Smile Month launches 50th campaign with nationwide Wall of Smiles celebration

    The Oral Health Foundation is inviting people across the UK to share their smile and become part of a nationwide “Wall of Smiles” as Smile Month officially launches its 50th campaign today.

Most read

  • What to do after a tooth extraction

    What to do after a tooth extraction

    General advice about what to do after having teeth taken out. Includes what precautions you should take and things to avoid.

  • Burning mouth syndrome

    Burning mouth syndrome

    Burning Mouth Syndrome can be an extremely uncomfortable condition which can have several potential causes.

  • Mouth ulcers

    Mouth ulcers

    Usually red or yellow in colour, mouth ulcers are painful sores that can appear inside the mouth and also on the outer lips.

  • Geographic tongue

    Geographic tongue

    Geographic tongue is a common condition which can appear on the top and sides of the tongue, and sometimes on the under-surface.

  • How to spot mouth cancer

    How to spot mouth cancer

    How much do you know about the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer? By being Mouthaware you can make a difference in the fight against mouth cancer.

  • Wisdom teeth

    Wisdom teeth

    The wisdom teeth are the last to appear, right at the back of the mouth, often between 17 and 25 but sometime many years later.

  • Jaw problems and headaches

    Jaw problems and headaches

    Learn about jaw issues, their causes, and treatments. Find out how bite problems impact teeth, gums, TMJ, muscles, and lead to headaches.

  • Cracked teeth

    Cracked teeth

    There are several ways in which your tooth can crack or break and it is important that you get it seen to as soon as possible.

  • Gum disease

    Gum disease

    Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontal disease) is swelling, soreness or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth.

  • Lichen planus

    Lichen planus

    Lichen planus is a disease which can affect the mouth and other areas of the body. Symptoms include white patches on the inside of the cheeks.

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