Help Mimi Fight a Rare 1-in-a Million Appendix Tumour

Hi, my name is Aimee – though most of my friends know me as Mimi.

It's incredibly hard for me to write this, but I’ve reached a point where I need to lean on others and ask for help during what has become the most challenging chapter of my life.

From Marathon Training to a Rare Appendix Tumour

Earlier this year, I was in the middle of training for the Bournemouth Marathon - something I was so excited and proud to take on. I've always been someone who prioritises health and fitness: I've been vegetarian my whole life, and vegan for the past 9 years. I thought I was doing everything right.

But around that time, I began noticing unusual bloating and discomfort in my abdomen. At first, I assumed it was something minor - maybe IBS/diet-related, maybe just overtraining - but the symptoms didn’t go away, only more extreme and uncomfortable.

After months of invasive tests, scans, and uncertainty, I received news I never expected:

I have a very rare tumour hidden in my appendix -something so uncommon, it affects just 1 or 2 in a million people globally.

I had never even heard of this type of tumour before. Now, I'm living with it.

What Comes Next: Major Surgery + HIPEC Treatment

The next phase of my journey is intense and life-altering. I’ll be undergoing a complex, lengthy operation known as Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) - expected to last between 8 to 10 hours under general anaesthetic. The surgery is due in the next 6 weeks (I'll update when I have a date)

To be fully transparent, the surgery involves removing all visible signs of disease, including:

-My appendix

-A cyst that has grown from the appendix tumour

-My ovaries (one, or both)

As well as other nearby organs if affected such as my gallbladder, spleen, and the omentum (a protective layer of tissue in the abdomen) only if absolutely necessary. I want to keep as many organs as I can!

I'm incredibly fortunate to be under the care of an exceptional surgical team at Basingstoke & North Hampshire Hospital, which is internationally recognised for its expertise in treating pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) - the rare form of appendix cancer I've been diagnosed with. I couldn't be in better hands, and I'm clinging to that comfort right now.

Following surgery, I'll receive a one-time treatment called HIPEC (Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy). This involves circulating a heated CT solution directly into the abdominal cavity for about an hour before being carefully rinsed out - all while I'm still in surgery.

When I first heard them say the word "chemotherapy" I said "absolutely not, no chance!" one of my immediate fears was losing my hair. It may sound small but in the middle of such a physically and emotionally draining experience, losing something so personal can feel like yet another blow. Thankfully, HIPEC doesn't cause hair loss, as it's a localised treatment, not the kind that goes through the bloodstream. That news gave me a small but deeply needed sense of relief.

Why I’m Asking for Help

I've never been someone who finds it easy to ask for help. I've always tried to handle life's challenges independently, with quiet strength. But this is unlike anything I've ever faced - and the truth is, I can't do it alone.

I also understand how hard things are for so many people right now. That’s part of what makes this so difficult to ask ~ I know we're all stretched. But if you are in a position to support me in any way, even a small amount truly helps and means the world to me.

I'm currently facing a number of urgent and ongoing costs that aren't covered by the NHS, including:

-Travel to and from specialist hospital appointments

-Medical supplies and post-operative essentials

-Help with rent, bills, and basic living costs while I recover and am unable to work

-Physiotherapy (3 months following surgery) to help rebuild strength and movement

-Infrared therapy to support healing and reduce inflammation

-Nutritional support and recovery care during a long healing process

How You Can Help

Donate – even the smallest amount makes a real difference

Share this page with friends or on social media

Send love, encouragement, or healing energy, messages – your emotional support is everything right now!

This journey has humbled me more than words can describe. But I'm holding onto hope. I'm choosing to believe in myself and my body's ability to heal, in community, and getting my life back, after such a challenging part of most of 2025.

If you've taken the time to read my story, thank you so much. And if you can help - in any way - please know that I will carry that kindness with me every step of the way.

With love and deep gratitude from the bottom of my heart,

Mimi (Aimee) xxx ️