A Lancashire man whose seizures were misdiagnosed as epilepsy – only to later learn he had a life-threatening brain tumour – is fighting to increase visibility of the disease during Brain Tumour Awareness Month.
Alex Davies, 49, from Bolton, began experiencing unconsciousness and seizures in June 2023. Despite MRI and CT scans detecting “something”, Alex was placed on a waiting list and prescribed epilepsy medication.
Within a few weeks, Alex’s condition worsened to the point that he could no longer function, with his GP wondering whether the medication could be causing such severe side effects. After being hospitalised following another seizure, a further CT scan showed a shadow on his brain. A biopsy revealed it to be a glioblastoma brain tumour.
Throughout ongoing treatment, and a clinical trial combining chemotherapy and cannabis-based drug Sativex, Alex has been working to raise awareness of this devastating disease and the need for more funding.
He has been active during Light up the UK, an initiative held during March by Brain Tumour Research in which landmarks and iconic buildings across the country light up in our signature pink and yellow colours, to raise awareness of our cause.
Alex explained: “After my diagnosis, I discovered this fantastic Charity dedicated to finding a cure. I’ve arranged for Bolton and Chorley Town Halls to be lit up in their colours for Brain Tumour Awareness Month. I’ve also confirmed that King’s Cross, Leeds, and Liverpool Lime Street stations will follow suit."
Alex and his loved ones have also raised more than £6,000 for the brain tumour community – you can donate to that total through his Brain Tumour Research JustGiving page.
Alternatively, find out how you can get involved with Brain Tumour Awareness Month.
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