We need to talk more openly about brain tumours

Essex-based Abbie Lamont, 28, was working as a nursery school manager when she started experiencing blurred vision and seizures. She shares her story of being diagnosed with a low-grade glioma and why she's determined to raise awareness of the impacts of tumours. 

I had an active and busy life in Manningtree with my partner Josh and our dog Jimmy, an adorable cockapoo (pictured top left). I worked as a nursery school manager, a role I loved because it combined caring for children with motivating and supporting my team, who felt like family. 

In my spare time I enjoyed Zumba classes, walking Jimmy, and spending time with my family. Josh comes from a big family and we're also really close. I was living a happy and fulfilled life. Then everything changed on 3rd January 2026 when I experienced blurred vision while driving. This was followed by a tonic-clonic seizure on 6th January when I was taken to a hospital in Chelmsford. A scan did not show anything concerning at the time, but I was told not to drive. 

At first, I wondered whether it could be epilepsy. My dad had experienced epilepsy in the past, so although the experience was frightening, I tried to put it to the back of my mind.

But after a second seizure, I was taken to Colchester Hospital. I was left in a corridor for 18 hours and it was awful. At one point, while I was on a drip, the stand was broken and Josh had to hold it up for me. 

My family was concerned so I later had a private appointment at The Oaks Hospital in Colchester. I was seen by a doctor who had a background in epilepsy, and was prescribed levetiracetam, a medication to help manage my seizures. But I've found the side effects of this drug difficult. Levetiracetam has affected my mood, leaving me feeling more anxious and tearful than usual, as well as making some foods taste metallic. It changes my whole personality.  

We suspected my condition was more serious than seizures so I was given another MRI scan, which revealed a brain tumour. I was told the news over the phone while I was at work. I was in complete shock. I felt confused and it was too much to take in. I also felt like I had to carry on with my day.  Since my diagnosis, I’ve been referred to Queen’s Hospital in Romford, where my care has been great. 

A further MRI scan confirmed my tumour is a low-grade glioma. I felt overwhelmed and worried. I'm due to have a craniotomy at the end of July, this procedure will aim to remove only part of the tumour because of its position close to nerves.  

Abbie with her parents in Lanzarote

I travelled to Lanzarote with my parents recently, to make fun memories, enjoy a holiday together and take my mind off the surgery. I've also been taking part in prehabilitation before my operation, including gym sessions to build strength and help with my recovery. Doctors have told me to expect around three months of recovery after surgery, followed by regular MRI scans to monitor my health. 

This diagnosis has changed my routine, work and independence. I've been told I will not be able to drive for a year which is frustrating.

I've stopped working because it's been too much to cope with. Now I feel like my freedom is being taken away. I’m having to rely on other people and not being able to just get on and do things. It’s been hard to process everything and cope with the uncertainty, but my colleagues at the nursery have been so supportive through our online group chat and have kept me involved in things. I recently attended the children’s graduation and I’m really looking forward to returning to work when I get the all clear. 

Practical support has been tough to navigate. Trying to understand what help is available, including benefits and financial support, has been overwhelming and has added to my stress. Josh is self-employed and has been by my side throughout everything. While at home, I've spent time with his siblings and their children, which has brought me a lot of joy. My best friend Libby is always happy to help and has been one of my biggest support networks. Jimmy has also been my side, he's very protective over me and senses that there’s something wrong.  

Abbie with Libby

After feeling left in the dark, I set up a TikTok page to help other people affected by brain tumours feel more supported. I relied on social media to look for other people’s experiences of being diagnosed with a brain tumour and treatment. I believe more needs to be done to talk openly about brain tumours and the impact they have on everyday life. It seems like a taboo topic where there's awkward silences and people don’t know what to say.  

I'm also planning a quiz night at our local pub, The Bradfield Village Maid, at the end of August to raise money and awareness for Brain Tumour Research. By sharing my story, I hope I can help others feel less alone and encourage more conversations about the reality of living with a brain tumour.