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Christine's Journey: Living with a Brain Tumour for Over 40 Years
- fiona40828
- Mar 27
- 4 min read
In October 1980, at just 18 years old, Christine received life-changing news—she had been diagnosed with a Cerebella Astrocytoma Brain Tumour. What followed was a journey of resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit to live life to the fullest.
The First Signs
Looking back, Christine recalls experiencing symptoms as early as March of that year.
“I used to pass out frequently, but only for a few seconds and only when I was sitting down. I thought it was due to my age and the work as a shorthand typist.”
Soon after, she started losing balance, often wobbling and twisting her ankles. “I put this down to wearing high-heeled shoes, as was the fashion of the time.” However, her symptoms escalated—headaches, nausea, and a general sense of being unwell followed. During a holiday to Scarborough in July, these symptoms became more persistent, but it wasn’t until October that she sought medical advice.
When she visited her GP complaining of severe headaches and sickness, she was initially misdiagnosed with food poisoning. “Only by pushing from myself and my parents with the GP was I finally admitted to Leeds General Infirmary.”
Surgery & Recovery
Christine underwent surgery on 30th October 1980, performed by Mr. Miles Gibson and his neurosurgical team at LGI. As she was wheeled down the long corridor to the operating theatre, a nurse held her hand, offering a small but significant comfort. “I remember counting as I went under. The first person I saw when I came round was my mum.”
Christine missed the Christening of her niece, where she was a godmother by proxy. However, she holds onto memories of being taken outside the hospital to watch Bonfire Night fireworks. “I was told I was very lucky to be alive.”
After a brief return home, she started Radium therapy at Cookridge Hospital in December, receiving treatment every day for 20 days. “Whilst I was having the treatment, I felt sick and tired. I would come home on Friday tea time and go back on Sunday night to start treatment again.”
Life After Surgery
Recovery was long and challenging. She was put on steroids (Dexamethasone) and found it difficult to wean off them—her father had to cut them into progressively smaller doses. “I finally took my last tablet on 13th March 1982—the day of my best friend’s wedding.”
Christine also underwent a Ventricular Peritoneal Shunt placement in February 1981 to drain excess fluid from her brain. The first shunt lasted an incredible 28 years before it corroded and became infected. “Since 2009, I have had four more shunts fitted, lasting from 15 months, 4 years, 4 days, and 6 years.”
She was off work for 18 months, returning part-time in April 1982 before resuming full-time work until 1994.
Love, Family & Living Life Fully
During her illness, Christine and her boyfriend at the time, Alan, separated. However, they found their way back to each other in July 1982 and later married in March 1985.
Despite her health struggles, Christine lived life to the fullest. She gave birth to her daughter, Rebecca, in 1995, who now works in the Yorkshire Brain Tumour Charity (YBTC) shop. “Over the years, until 2009, I have led a normal life—taking my daughter to school, going on family holidays in the UK and abroad.” She even embarked on adventurous activities—flying in a glider, hot air balloon, and helicopter, and climbing Ben Nevis and Snowdon.
In 1989, Christine had to travel all the way to London by bus for an MRI scan, as LGI didn’t yet have one. “Talking about bad luck for my parents and family, my elder brother was diagnosed with a brain tumour in October 2013 and sadly passed away in May 2014.”
Staying Connected Through Wellbeing Walks
Christine is a regular attendee of our wellbeing walks, which provide brain tumour patients and their families the opportunity to engage with the brain tumour community and enjoy fresh air. Here at Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity, we understand the power of peer support and the benefits of getting out in nature. Working with the wonderful ‘Walking With My Bear’, we host accessible peer support walks across the whole of Yorkshire for those families affected by brain tumours.
These walks offer a space to connect with others in similar circumstances, practice mindfulness, and explore nature in beautiful, wheelchair-friendly locations. And of course, no walk is complete without a cuppa and a slice of cake—the perfect way to end a wonderful afternoon.
We offer regular wellbeing walks across the region, and you can find out more about our wellbeing walks by visiting https://www.yorksbtc.org.uk/event-list.
Experiencing Flat Cap Friday at Wetherby Racecourse
Christine also recently attended YBTC's Flat Cap Friday event on 21st March at Wetherby Racecourse, which successfully raised over £600 to help support families impacted by brain tumour diagnoses across Yorkshire. This special event not only raised vital funds for brain tumour research but also gave attendees a unique experience. Christine had the opportunity to go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the stables and weighing room, offering a fascinating insight into the world of horse racing. She thoroughly enjoyed the day, connecting with others in the community while experiencing something new and exciting.
Her Philosophy: Keep Moving Forward
Now, over 40 years after her initial diagnosis, Christine continues to “just get on with it.” While certain things—like drinking and frequent travel—are no longer possible, she remains grateful for the life she has lived and the experiences she has cherished.
Christine’s journey is a testament to perseverance, advocacy, and the importance of listening to one’s own body. Her story serves as an inspiration to many facing similar battles, reminding us all that even in the face of adversity, life is still meant to be lived.
We are proud to support and be supported by amazing people like Christine.
Christine’s journey highlights the importance of brain tumour research, early diagnosis, and patient advocacy. If her story resonates with you, consider supporting Brain Tumour Research and Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity. Together, we can make a difference.
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