The Three Tumours

I am a 52-year-old man, married with 4 girls. I previously worked for 25 years as the head of art at schools around the north east. My life consisted of teaching, golfing, cycling and swimming. At the age of 45 I was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer GBM grade 4, and was given 12-14 months to live. I haven’t let my illness stop me from living my life, I have ticked things off my bucket list and am living my life to the fullest. The three tumours gives us a chance to send a sense of hope and positivity to others that may be affected themselves or someone who has someone close effected by brain tumours/brain cancer.

I’m 39 years old. In October 2012, I was finally diagnosed with a brain tumour. Having spent several months visiting doctors to complain of nausea, dizziness and a lack of concentration. I was originally told the tumour was probably a GBM 2 and I would probably make a full recovery after a treatment. Interpretation of a further scan indicated it was likely to be a GBM4. I am pleased to be still be alive, over 5 years on. I can exercise; my written and oral communication skills are still strong and I am driving again. However, my life has been significantly impacted. Emotionally, I continue to be as positive as possible, but I’m simply not the same person I was.

Hi, I’m 25, I was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma when I was 19. I had 5 brain operations and intense radiotherapy. Everything went wrong so quickly and I ended up with the tumour growing fast and I suffered a major infection. I lost most of the use of my right side.I had a lot of anxiety walking or using my right side when I got home, I always felt like I was about to have a seizure.I survived and have been stable for nearly 6 years. I go to Physio for my right side and it is much better then it was. I started my own personal training business, Howard Fitness, and have developed a loyal client base. In addition, I coach young boxers and help other cancer patients get on with their lives.

We meet on the second Wednesday of each month 11:00am to 01:00pm at Maggies Centre located within Newcastle Upon Tyne Freeman Hospital. Nurses are on hand to answer questions and offer support as well as Benefit advice.

Our group meets on the forth Wednesday of each month 11:00am to 1:00pm at Eldon Lesiure Centre in Newcastle Upon Tyne, to catch up and chat with the odd art activity for people to participate in if the wish.

Please email us, use the contact form located on this page, if you require further information about any of our groups we are currently running.