Man Paralyzed After Misdiagnosis of Testicular Cancer
A man’s struggle with testicular cancer has left him paralyzed from the chest down after a series of misdiagnoses. Mal Nash, 42, experienced severe back pain for six months before seeking medical help. Initially treated for nerve pain, he was sent home with painkillers, but his condition rapidly deteriorated.
After two visits to the accident and emergency department, an MRI revealed that Nash was suffering from metastatic seminoma, a form of testicular cancer that had spread to his spine. The cancer had caused paralysis, impacting the spinal cord between the T6 and T7 vertebrae.
In September 2025, Nash’s diagnosis marked the beginning of a harrowing journey. His twin brother, Kevin Nash, explained the situation, saying, “He had a pain in his back that went straight up into his chest, and then pain in his shoulder.” Despite his brother’s worsening symptoms, initial consultations led to a lack of urgency in addressing the underlying issue.
Mal’s back pain began in April 2025, which he attributed to years of physical labor in factory work. However, as the pain intensified, he visited his doctor in September, only to be prescribed painkillers and referred to physiotherapy. Kevin recounted how Mal’s condition continued to decline, leading them to seek emergency care once again.
After further examination at the hospital, doctors discovered a compression in Mal’s spinal cord. The MRI scan, which finally confirmed his cancer diagnosis, also indicated that the paralysis was likely permanent. Kevin shared, “He was really excited about his work. He just worked through his back pain.” Mal had recently launched his own carpentry business and was eager to build a future despite his discomfort.
Following the diagnosis, Mal underwent emergency spinal surgery in hopes of restoring movement, but the procedure was unsuccessful. Currently, he is undergoing chemotherapy in an effort to combat the cancer. Kevin stated, “He won’t be able to move now but hopefully the cancer will go.” The impact of this situation extends beyond Mal’s health; it has also altered their living conditions.
To assist with necessary adaptations in their home, Kevin has initiated a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising £2,400 to make their house more accessible. “We live together so I am trying to raise some money as the house will need to be more accessible now,” he explained. The brothers are taking each day as it comes while they navigate this challenging chapter in their lives.
The case highlights a broader issue regarding testicular cancer awareness. In the UK, approximately 2,400 new cases are diagnosed annually, with no national screening program in place. Kevin urges others to take proactive steps in checking themselves regularly, saying, “It is so important to check these things. If you do, you can catch the early signs and not be in the place as my brother.”
As the Nash family faces the reality of this life-altering diagnosis, their story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of early detection and the need for vigilance regarding health concerns. For those interested in contributing to their cause, the GoFundMe page can be found online.
