Tianna-Marie Shellard has faced the unimaginable, navigating heartbreak and loss – not once, but twice. Her story is a powerful reminder of how life can change in an instant. Over a decade ago, she lost her best friend Lauren to a brain tumour. Five years later, her father, John, succumbed to the same devastating illness.
For most of us, the statistics remain mere numbers until they hit close to home. In the UK alone, over 12,000 are diagnosed with primary brain tumours each year. Tianna’s journey reminds us that these numbers are more than just statistics—they are lives and stories.
Tianna first felt the sting of such a loss when her childhood friend Lauren was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Despite her illness, Lauren remained a beacon of positivity, humour, and energy—a spirit Tianna remembers fondly. After Lauren’s passing, Tianna stepped in to support Lauren’s younger sister, nurturing a bond that remains strong to this day.
Heartache returned when her father, John Powell—a beloved DJ and community figure—experienced severe headaches and personality changes. An aggressive brain tumour cut his life short in 2020. Having seen this before, Tianna knew the painful road ahead. Despite the heartache, she cherishes the time spent with him at home during his final weeks.
To honour both Lauren and John, Tianna will brave a 10,000ft skydive to raise money for The Brain Tumour Charity. The dive is not only a tribute but also a call for greater awareness. Brain tumours strike without warning, irrespective of age or lifestyle. Tianna’s mission is clear: raise awareness for early detection and support other families facing similar battles.
Join Tianna in her journey to remember and honour the lives lost to this indiscriminate disease, and help her turn personal tragedy into a message of hope and action. If you’re moved by her story, consider donating to her cause and stand with those affected, ensuring their stories are both heard and remembered. 🌈🕊️
[Donate to Tianna’s fundraiser here](#)