Medical Negligence Lawyers Help Woman Access Specialist Therapies She Requires

A mum diagnosed with cervical cancer three-and-a-half years after not being referred to specialists to remove high-grade cell changes is calling for lessons to be learned.

Shannon Dunkley, of Wombwell, Barnsley, underwent routine screening in January 2019. The result was classed as showing ‘borderline’ abnormal changes and that Shannon had human papillomavirus (HPV) – the virus which can lead to cancer. 

However, Shannon’s test showed high-grade pre-cancerous cell changes. 

South Yorkshire mum Shannon referred back to GP instead of undergoing treatment

Instead of her case being discussed by a specialist team and Shannon undergoing treatment to remove the cells, following a further examination, the 37-year-old was referred back to her GP surgery for routine testing every three years. 

However, by 2021, Shannon a midwife, started experiencing symptoms, including bleeding, which became daily, as well as hip and pelvic pain. 

The results of her next smear in May 2022 showed high-grade cells changes. Following tests, Shannon was diagnosed with advanced stage three cervical cancer which had spread to surrounding tissue. A tumour measuring 4cm X 3.5cm was found. 

An audit of her 2019 test showed high-grade cell changes.

Shannon, who has two children Nathaniel, 13, and Niamha, 10, with husband Jason, 41, underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy and brachytherapy, where radiation is inserted into the body near to the cancer. 

Medical negligence lawyers investigate after Shannon's cervical cancer diagnosis  

She instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether her cancer could have been diagnosed sooner and help her access the specialist therapies and rehabilitation she requires. 

Shannon has now joined her legal team in calling for lessons to be learned to improve patient care.  

Sheffield Hospital Trust admits care failings

It comes after Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which was responsible for analysing her 2019 smear result, admitted a breach of duty. The Trust admitted it incorrectly classed Shannon’s test result as ‘borderline’ and failed to identify high-grade cell changes. 

If the smear had been accurately reported, Shannon’s case would have been reviewed by a multi-disciplinary cancer team, and on the balance of probabilities, she would have undergone treatment to remove cells by the end of 2019 at the latest and would not have required invasive cancer treatment, the Trust admitted.

Rosie Charlton is the expert medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, representing Shannon.

Expert Opinion

“The last few years and coming to terms with her diagnosis and its impact has been incredibly difficult for not only Shannon but her family.

“Understandably she had a number of concerns about her diagnosis and whether more could have been done at an earlier stage.

“While nothing can make up for what she’s been through and continues to face, we’re pleased that we’ve at least been able to secure Shannon the answers she deserves.

“Worrying issues in the care she received have been admitted. We’re now working with the Trust to secure a settlement so Shannon can access the specialist therapies and support she requires because of her cancer.

“Despite the issues highlighted in Shannon’s case, it’s important women continue to take part in the screening programme. Through our work we sadly see the impact that cancer can have and how early detection and treatment are key to beating it.” Rosie Charlton

Cervical cancer: Shannon Dunkley tells her story

Following her treatment, Shannon continues to suffer the effects of radiation therapy, including pain. She is going through early menopause, has been diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome and has reduced bone density, which is believed to be as a result of treatment.     

Shannon said: “I was concerned about my symptoms but still nothing prepared me for the news I had cancer. At that moment I knew life would change. 

“It was a whirlwind of emotions. I was trying to take in the news - especially that I had advanced cancer - and I had so many concerns about how this happened given that I had always been for my smears. 

“I tried to remain as positive as I could for Jason and the kids but it was an extremely emotional time. The treatment was particularly gruelling and took a physical and psychological toll on me. 

“I’d just qualified as a midwife and our family was complete. Then in a moment I was left contemplating what the future may hold for us. 

“I missed so much time at work and when I did finally return it was part-time and in an admin role only. 

“I still live with the effects of my treatment. I’m not as independent as I used to be, I feel like my quality of life has deteriorated and am anxious about my prognosis and whether the cancer will return.

“Work have been really understanding and I can’t thank my family enough for everything they’ve done for me these last few years. They’ve been my rock and I wouldn’t have got through it if it wasn’t for their love and support. 

“I just hope that by sharing my story I can raise awareness of the issues I’ve faced to improve care for others.”

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting patients and families affected by cancer care issues at our dedicated cancer claims section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.