Young Student’s Rare Cancer Journey Shows Strength, Hope, and the Power of Staying Active

When 25-year-old student Ben Wagenmann discovered a small lump on the side of his neck, he never imagined it would lead to a life-changing cancer diagnosis. An active young man who enjoyed cycling, skiing, and studying artificial intelligence and medicine, Ben’s life changed after doctors discovered he had an ultra-rare form of cancer called cervical paraganglioma.

Cervical paraganglioma is a rare tumour that develops in the neck, often near important blood vessels and nerves. These tumours are usually slow-growing, but in some cases they can spread to other parts of the body. Ben’s case was especially unusual because his cancer had already travelled to areas including his spine, ribs, and hip by the time doctors fully understood the seriousness of his condition.

Today, Ben continues treatment while focusing on maintaining his quality of life. His story highlights resilience, determination, and the importance of listening to changes in the body.

A Small Lump That Changed Everything

Ben first noticed something unusual in April 2023 after returning from a skiing trip that resulted in a chest infection. Although the infection improved within a week, a lump on the side of his throat remained.

At first, the lump did not seem alarming. Ben described it as uncomfortable when pressed but did not experience many other symptoms. Because the infection had cleared but the lump remained, he eventually discussed it with his father, who is a doctor.

After antibiotics failed to resolve the issue, Ben underwent further medical checks. A 3D ultrasound of his neck revealed a mass behind a lymph node, and an MRI later showed a tumour measuring up to 6 centimetres.

Doctors initially believed the tumour was likely slow-growing and not immediately dangerous. However, further scans revealed a more serious situation. A PET scan showed small areas of cancer spread, including spots in his bones.

This discovery led to Ben receiving his diagnosis of metastatic cervical paraganglioma at the age of 25.

Facing an Extremely Rare Cancer Diagnosis

Rare cancers often create additional challenges because doctors may have limited experience treating them. Ben’s cancer was so uncommon that there were no simple treatment guidelines available.

Following his diagnosis, Ben underwent a major 10-hour surgery because the tumour was located near his carotid artery, one of the body’s major blood vessels. The operation was complicated, and afterward Ben had to avoid exercise for several months because doctors were concerned about the risk to his artery.

During follow-up scans, doctors discovered that the cancer had spread further. Ben’s medical team had to consider treatment options carefully due to the unusual nature of his disease.

Eventually, they decided on radionuclide therapy, a treatment that uses radioactive medicines designed to target cancer cells from inside the body.

Life During Radionuclide Therapy

From the summer of 2024, Ben completed six cycles of radionuclide therapy using the radioactive compound lutetium. The treatment required him to stay in an isolation ward because of the radiation involved.

Ben described the experience as unusual and emotionally difficult. During treatment, he had limited contact with other people and had to spend time alone. After returning home, he still had restrictions for several days, including avoiding close contact with children, pregnant people, and loved ones.

Despite these challenges, Ben found ways to cope. He spent time watching shows, reading books, listening to podcasts, and staying connected with friends and family.

Follow-up scans showed that the treatment had not reduced the size of his tumours, but it had stopped the cancer from spreading further. For Ben, this was a positive outcome.

He explained that keeping the cancer stable was a meaningful success because preventing growth allowed him to continue living his life.

Choosing to Live Fully Despite Cancer

Although Ben’s cancer is considered incurable, he refuses to allow the diagnosis to define every part of his life. He continues to stay active whenever possible and works hard to maintain his physical and mental wellbeing.

Pain is now a regular part of his life, especially in his back and legs, but he manages it through physiotherapy and medication.

Ben has continued participating in challenging activities, including completing the Bern Grand Prix, a 16-kilometre race through the Swiss city. He has also hoped to complete a long-distance cycling journey from Copenhagen to Oslo to visit a friend.

For Ben, staying active is not only about fitness. It represents independence, motivation, and refusing to let cancer take away his everyday experiences.

“I want to show the world that you can do all these things even when you’re sick,” Ben shared.

His approach reflects a powerful message: illness can change a person’s circumstances, but it does not have to remove their ability to find purpose and enjoyment.

The Importance of Awareness and Medical Attention

Ben’s experience also highlights why people should pay attention to unusual changes in their bodies. A persistent lump does not always indicate cancer, but changes that do not disappear should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Rare cancers can be difficult to diagnose because their symptoms may appear harmless at first. Early medical attention can help doctors investigate unusual signs and determine the right course of action.

Ben continues to attend regular hospital appointments and undergo scans to monitor his condition. Each appointment brings uncertainty, but he focuses on the present and makes the most of the time he has.

Final Thoughts

Ben Wagenmann’s journey with cervical paraganglioma is a reminder of the strength people can show when facing unexpected health challenges. His story is not only about cancer treatment, but also about determination, relationships, and continuing to pursue meaningful experiences.

While his diagnosis has changed his future, Ben remains committed to living actively and creating memories. His message is clear: a serious illness may become part of someone’s story, but it does not have to become the whole story.

Source

The Independent, July 28 2026.

Disclaimer

This blog is intended for informational and awareness purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Anyone experiencing health concerns, unusual symptoms, or persistent changes should consult a qualified healthcare professional.