Brain tumour research: accounts from those affected

Here we read of the brave and emotional accounts of those affected by a brain tumour diagnosis
Brain tumour research: accounts from those affected

The ripples caused by a brain tumour diagnosis are far reaching; not only a harrowing time for the patient but also affecting the families and friends of those who are diagnosed too.

Here are some of the stories which have been kindly shared with us.

Benjamin Mee of Dartmoor Zoo

I lost my beautiful wife Katherine to a brain tumour in 2007. When she was first diagnosed and operated on in 2004, the neurosurgeon told us the tumour would come back. On 22 December 2006, we discovered that Katherine's tumour had returned.

Benjamin supports the Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Plymouth

Read more of Benjamin's story

April Watkins

Since my diagnosis I’ve met many people with brain tumours who’ve sadly since died or had awful side effects, such as loss of mobility and blindness, and I realise just how fortunate I have been. This is why I am supporting Brain Tumour Research.

In 2010, the University of Plymouth's April Watkins was diagnosed with a brain tumour and, following surgery, has made a good recovery.

Read April's story

Sam Gadd

Receiving the diagnosis of a brain tumour is like living with a time-bomb. It’s like getting a death sentence and not knowing how long that sentence will be. My life has changed beyond recognition and is lived from scan to scan.

Sam Gadd, 45, is a social worker in Devon. Diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2012, she is currently undergoing treatment.

Read Sam's story