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tumour: cancer, is the #1 killer of budgies. Hard to tell from your description and I'm not a vet. Regarding vets: you should call around. They don't need to be AVIAN vets, but they do need to have a special interest in birds. IE: very few avian vets are actually BOARD certified, but many know a lot about birds and are very capable.
As for your baby, don't force her onto pellets. That can be very stressful and if she's been a seed eater all her life, she isn't apt to change. besides, seeds aren't a big EVIL....budgies are naturally seed eaters so it certainly won't hurt them as long as it's a good quality seed and the diet is supplemented by veggies and dark leafy greens.
As for the possibility of a tumour...laboured breathing is probably NOT a good sign...If the chest appears larger than the others and continues to get larger, it could mean a lymph tumour...those progress rather quickly. I don't think it has to do with being fat. But I am reticent to offer an opinion since I haven't seen the bird and am not a doctor.
Really your best bet is to find a vet..make some calls and perhaps there is a local bird organization in your area or even call some bird BREEDERS who could direct you to their preferred vet. Breeders need to use good vets so they could steer you in the right direction.
Good luck and keep us posted....
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