A mother has revealed that her daughter stopped attending dance classes due to what seemed like ‘growing pains,’ which turned out to be a large tumor in her throat. Cheryl Barber noticed her 11-year-old daughter, Tamelia Felway, experiencing fatigue and discomfort in September 2022. Tamelia, who was passionate about dancing, gave up her hobby, started gaining weight, and exhibited mood swings that raised concerns for Cheryl, who then consulted their family doctor.
Despite being told that the symptoms were likely just part of growing up, Cheryl persisted as Tamelia’s condition worsened. In September 2024, Cheryl discovered a lump on Tamelia’s throat, leading to extensive tests and eventually the removal of the lump after more than a year. Doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital diagnosed Tamelia with thyroid cancer in November 2025, and she began radiotherapy in May 2026.
Cheryl emphasizes the importance of trusting parental instincts and has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support their frequent hospital visits while also caring for her two-year-old daughter, Lily. Observing the drastic changes in Tamelia’s health, Cheryl recalls how her daughter’s energy levels plummeted, preventing her from pursuing her passion for dancing. The sudden weight gain and the presence of a noticeable lump prompted Cheryl to seek further medical attention, leading to the cancer diagnosis.
Tamelia’s GoFundMe has received substantial support, exceeding £3,200. Cheryl discloses that Tamelia has been diagnosed with two types of thyroid cancer, and although unsure of the cancer’s current stage, she stresses the importance of taking parents’ concerns seriously. Cheryl expresses frustration over the delayed diagnosis, believing that the cancer might have been present for several years before being detected.
Thyroid cancer affects the thyroid gland located in the lower front part of the neck, with common symptoms including neck lumps, hoarseness, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. Treatment typically involves surgery, hormone therapy, radioactive iodine treatment, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy.