A mum’s headaches were brushed off as anxiety, but when her periods stopped in her 30s, Jodie Boulton discovered she had a satsuma-sized brain tumour! 😮 Jodie, from Caerphilly, was back and forth to the doctors, being told she was just anxious. But when her periods suddenly stopped, an MRI revealed the startling truth: a mass on her brain, likely there for 20 years.
“I felt angry and relieved,” Jodie shares, “Angry for the years without answers but relieved to finally know why.” 🤯 The tumour was impacting her hormones, causing additional symptoms like double vision and balance issues. By the time surgery came around in 2025, Jodie had to undergo a 12-hour operation, removing 85% of the tumour. The remaining part was too risky to remove as it was wrapped around her optic nerve.
Post-surgery setbacks hit as well. An infection led to further complications, resulting in part of her skull being removed. Jodie must wear a hard hat for now, and she feels her independence has taken a real hit. Yet, she’s raising awareness and funds for Brain Tumour Research, completing 10,000 steps daily and urging everyone to keep talking about such conditions.
“I’ve regained my health and feel like I did 10 years ago,” she says motivatingly. Jodie’s story is one of hope and survival. “Brain tumours are indiscriminate and don’t care about your age or gender. I’m encouraging everyone to take on a challenge or donate to help change the story for brain tumour patients.” 🧠💪
Dr Karen Noble calls for clinical trials in Wales, highlighting the dire need for innovation and research. “It’s time to do things differently!”
A story of resilience and hope, Jodie urges us all to stay informed and supportive, challenging the status quo for better health outcomes. 💖 #BrainTumourAwareness #HealthJustice #JodiesJourney