A 64-year-old Kent musician who played guitar during an operation to remove a brain tumour looks set to soon complete his part in a month-long challenge to raise awareness and research funds for the disease.
Colin Miller, from Herne Bay, bravely took on our 99 Miles in November challenge, raising money for Brain Tumour Research and furthering our vision to find a cure for all types of brain tumours.
This November marks just over a year since the amateur musician played chords on his beloved acoustic guitar during an eight-hour operation at King’s College Hospital in London, to remove a golf-ball sized tumour on his brain.
Colin had spent four decades working in IT before his diagnosis of a life-limiting glioblastoma (GBM) in October 2023, after the left side of his face went into spasm. Following surgery, Colin had chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and is now monitored with monthly scans.
Colin said: “I was given a choice of being awake or asleep for the procedure. The doctor questioned how I use motor movements on my left side, and I told him I play the guitar. So not to lose mobility in my hand and fingers, they asked me to bring in my guitar and I was woken up part way through my surgery and played different tunes.
“I couldn’t process playing any familiar songs but strummed chords. The whole experience was fascinating.”
Colin has recently returned to the Herne Bay Baptist Church band, with which he regularly performed, but only occasionally singing. Explaining the aftereffects of his surgery, he said: “Speaking and singing are two different skills. My brain takes a while to process during conversations but, when I’m singing, I can perform lyrics well.”
If you’ve been inspired by Colin’s resilience and generosity, you can donate to us via his JustGiving page. Alternatively, you can take on your own fundraising challenge and help us find a cure.
Related reading:
- Davina McCall undergoes surgery for a brain tumour
- Determined patient marches on in face of diagnosis
Published Wednesday 27th November 2024.