3rd February 2021
Chad’s story
Hi my name is Chad and I am 17.
Last August 2020 I went to have a routine eye test. The optician sent me straight to Torbay Hospital for a scan which showed a mass in my brain. The next day I was transferred to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth with acute Hydrocephalus and was told I had a brain tumour. I had an operation to drain the excess fluid and take a biopsy to determine what sort of tumour it was and whether it was cancerous or not. A few weeks later the diagnosis confirmed I had a non-cancerous low grade ‘pilocytic astrocytoma’ which unfortunately is inoperable.
After another operation to fit a permanent shunt which drains into my stomach and, after recovering from a Cerebral Spinal Fluid infection, I am at the moment quite stable! I now have to wait to see if the tumour changes – my next scan is in April.
During this time, I have had loads of support from my family and friends but also from The Teenage and Young Adults Cancer support team at Derriford. I have also been supported by The Brain Tumour Charity and have joined their young person’s support group. I hope to become a young ambassador for The Brain Tumour Charity, helping to raise awareness of this devastating disease.
My Fundraising
My first challenge is going to be a 26-mile bike ride along the River Exe from Exmouth to Dawlish, supported by my good friend Issac. This may not seem far to those who cycle, but for me (also carrying too much weight after all the drugs I have had!) it is quite a challenge! This hopefully will take place on Easter weekend – but the date may have to change due to the current pandemic. Please help me to raise much needed funds for The Brain Tumour Charity by donating on this page.
The Brain Tumour Charity
The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And we’re doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.
We’re proud of the adversity that Chad has overcome. His story and his 26 mile bike ride has already seen donations almost four times what he set out to raise but we wish him even greater success with his fundraising to support such an important charity for many people.