Rare Cancer Claims Life of 30-Year-Old Man in UK
Alex Able, 30, of Horsted, Chatham, has died after a battle with an exceptionally rare and aggressive cancer known as a Rhabdoid tumour. He is believed to be the first adult in the UK diagnosed with the condition, wich typically affects infants between 11 and 18 months old. There have been only 11 recorded cases in Europe.
Diagnosed the year prior to his death, Alex’s condition worsened, leading to the spread of the tumour and the eventual cessation of therapy by his medical team at Guys Hospital in London. His family launched a fundraiser in July to explore choice treatment options, garnering support from medical professionals, including a specialist in Germany, who offered to collaborate on a new plan.
Tragically, after beginning the new treatment, Alex suffered a fatal brain bleed and passed away surrounded by his wife, elle. The couple met online in 2019 and quickly became inseparable, moving in together after their second date. They where engaged within nine months and married a year later in a small ceremony during the pandemic.
Friends and family remember Alex as a talented and creative individual with a passion for art, music, and motorbikes. his mother-in-law, Katie Dine, expressed the family’s grief, stating, “We feel like he hasn’t had an opportunity to live his life.” They had been looking forward to starting a family and relocating to Shropshire to be closer to Elle’s family.
To honor Alex’s memory,his family plans to establish “The Alex Able Retreat,” offering free,fully-accessible accommodation for individuals undergoing similar health challenges. The retreat will be funded by remaining funds raised for his treatment.
Rhabdoid tumours are known for their rapid spread and difficulty to treat. Alex’s case brought rare awareness to the disease and highlighted the challenges faced by those battling uncommon cancers.