Hi, today I received a diagnosis of a fast growing tumour on my brain - glioblastoma I think. Much worse news than I was hoping for. I was originally referred fror non-urgent mri after routine hearing test in May 2025 showed asymmetric in my hearing. Scan finally done in Jan 2026 showing hearing & associated nerves fine, but something unexpected on my brain. Mri with contrast followed and first appointment with consultant today. Will be having pre-op and op i next 2 weeks, to be followed by radiotherapy & chemotherapy, but also told likely it will still come back. I hav been fit & healthy with no symptoms to date so this has been devastating shock. I have good support from friends and brother. How do any of you remain positive going forwards inthis situation? Also happy to hear from those in Awake all night forum as had previously posted there, as sure I’ll be having more sleepless nights. Thanks for reading.
Hi Homebird, what shocking news, I’m really feeling for you today.. ️ Glad that the op will be soon though.
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I was in the same position four years ago, and am getting biannual MRI scans every year. One thing I can tell you is that after an operation, radio and chemo, I had no trouble getting to sleep! I still have naps whenever I can, so I’d advise that whenever you get tired (if possible).
Sounds like you have great support - it’s everything at a time like this, right? If you have any questions, do ask - I took a lot of notes over the last few years.
Xxx
Thank you for replying. It's really hard telling people what's happening- there are other friends in groups I belong to, arts & crafts etc, that I know less well that I'll need to tell as I'll be disappearing from them for my treatment /journey. Groups I'd like to continue being part of when I feel like it, but know it will involve explaining what's going on - and don't want to be being asked all time how I am by people who are not part of my inner circle of close friends. I think I will have a chat with the special nurse assigned to me today, especially as I have to fill in an online consent form today for the op, to make sure I understand all the risks. It says it may take up to an hour to complete so I think it will be a hard read. My brother lives about 300 miles from me & had to travel back home again last night as he leads a busy life with his wife, 3 adult children and 5 grandchildren and together they need to work out how to be here with me to support me through this. I hate that this is going to steal precious time from the future I thought I still had ahead of me. Although I'm 66 I'm still active and being generally in good health, this is such a massive shock. Good to hear how others are coping but sorry you that you are on this unwanted journey xx
HI Homebird
so sorry to hear about all that has been going on, Life is too cruel for words at times.
I hope the appointment today goes smoothly and gives you a clearer plan of how the next few weeks are going to look.
I supported my late husband through the three years of his Glioblastoma journey so I can empathise with what you are going through.
I'm not big on giving advice. Take this journey one step at a time and focus on the facts as your own medical team tell you. Everyone's journey is unique to them so there are no hard and fast rules about how it plays out.
In G's case, he remained very physically fit throughout his journey right up until the last couple of weeks. His symptoms were cognitive (more like dementia) than cancer but he lived life to the fullest throughout. (You can read the gist of that tale in my bio)
At first he didn't want to tell anyone about his diagnosis until he absolutely had to. So, having read your comments above, who you choose to tell and when is entirely up to you. Don't feel pressured into telling people if you are not emotionally ready to do so. Take it at your own pace.
This is a safe and supportive space so please reach out here anytime. There's always someone about to listen who gets it, someone to hold your hand and to offer a virtual hug when its needed. You're not alone. We've got you.
It’s always good to talk so please remember that you can also call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, emotional support, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.
For now though I am sending you a huge virtual hug and lots of positive energy
love n hugs
Wee Me xxx
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
A massive shock is right, although for me after four years it’s now kind of normalised. I’ve changed my lifestyle, lost the friends I found unhelpful, and I feel enormous gratitude to the ones who still treat me normally and are happy to joke about everything, as well as sharing the deeper conversations. I have a brother too, and he’s another thing I’m grateful for - we lost our younger brother three years ago, and it’s brought us much closer. I sometimes wonder if what’s happening is harder for us or for them.. there’s no answer to that, but what Wee Me says is right: one step at a time.
giving a big big hug to you and your family xxx
Thank you Wee Mee. It all feels so difficult right now. Had managed to relax enough to have a nap in front of the telly, but then awake again and the reality of it hit me all over again. I didn't manage to speak to my nurse today, just had to leave a message. Reading through all the risks on the consent forms was really hard. But had some time with one friend this afternoon and have set up a WhatsApp group of all my friends who live close by and are happy to help in any way they can, so when I need something I can just message one group. Though living on my own I'm not used to asking for help! I need to learn how to just take one day at a time.
one step at a time is the best way. That's great that you've set up a What's App group with your friends. Asking for help and support can be challenging so glad to hear that your friends are rallying round you.
Remember you're never alone. We're here for you too.
love n hugs
Wee Me xx
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
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