A NURSE has spoken about her brain tumour diagnosis and treatment in a bid to raise awareness.
Annette Fletcher returned to work in October two years after her diagnosis and wants to share her story to show there can be a positive outcome and highlight the work of The Giles’ Trust Brain Tumour Fund.
Prior to her diagnosis in February 2022, Annette had experienced no headaches, but her family noticed she was having ‘funny turns’ which she later found out to be absent seizures.
Annette’s family and work colleagues also began to notice changes in her personality and that she was behaving out of character.
Annette suffered a major seizure and following a brain scan she was given the devastating news that she had a brain tumour.
She was told the tumour was the size of a small orange and had been growing for years, and that she needed urgent surgery to remove the tumour which was a success.
Annette was so grateful for the care she received at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.
Throughout her recovery, she has had incredible support from her family, friends and work colleagues, as well as the Wellbeing Team at the hospital.
Annette said: “Throughout my diagnosis and treatment journey I received incredible care and support which helped me remain positive for the future. My sister always told me to focus on the step in front of you and not on the whole staircase.
“It’s a privilege to be a nurse, I am so proud to be able to wear my uniform again and return to the job I love.”
Annette is sharing her story to highlight her positive treatment journey and also wants to raise awareness of other symptoms associated with brain tumours, as she didn’t have any headaches prior to her diagnosis.
She wants to encourage people not to ignore any changes they or family and friends notice and to go to GP.
March is Brain Tumour Awareness Month and provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of funding brain tumour research and supporting patients going through their treatment journey.
The Giles’ Trust Brain Tumour Fund, supported by Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity, funds vital research into brain tumours at the hospital, as well as providing added extras to patients, their families and staff.
