Stephanie Hilliard, a mum from Axbridge, Somerset, faced a terrifying journey when her supposed tinnitus turned out to be a slow-growing brain tumour. Initially dismissed, her symptoms like hearing loss, balance issues, and facial numbness pushed her to seek a second opinion. At seven months pregnant, an MRI revealed a benign meningioma that had likely been there since her teenage years.
“When I heard ‘brain tumour,’ I was in shock,” Stephanie recalls. “I was more worried about my children and my baby on the way. It was terrifying.” Despite being a non-cancerous tumour, the risks were huge, leading her to undergo brain surgery with potential life-altering consequences. After giving birth to her daughter Lily, Stephanie had 60% of the tumour removed to avoid severe damage.
Recovery was a tough road. She had to relearn basic tasks like eating and dressing while juggling family life with a newborn. Four years later, in 2013, the tumour began to regrow. Despite more radiotherapy, Stephanie continues living with the tumour’s effects, including balance issues and fatigue.
Now a full-time carer for her daughter, Stephanie, 50, doesn’t let her condition define her. “Living with a brain tumour brings constant uncertainty, but I want to make a difference,” she says. Determined to contribute, she’s embarked on a 10,000 steps a day challenge in February to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research. “Walking is not just exercise—it’s hope. It’s for me, my children, and everyone impacted by brain tumours.”
Letty Greenfield from Brain Tumour Research praises Stephanie, saying her story is a powerful reminder of the far-reaching impact of brain tumours and the importance of fundraising. Stephanie’s efforts are vital for pushing research towards better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Let’s show our support for Stephanie and raise awareness of this crucial cause! 🌸💕 #BrainTumourResearch #10KStepsChallenge #HopeInEveryStep