Fitness instructor fundraises despite ‘nightmare’ brain tumours

Brain Tumour Research

2 min read

A Lancashire-based fitness instructor who was diagnosed with two brain tumours is taking part in our 99 Miles in November fundraiser.

Heather Sells, 46, was a popular local fitness instructor when blinding headaches and balance issues struck her during online classes. This was at the height of COVID-19 restrictions in June 2020, meaning she was unable to see an optician. Heather later suffered a seizure, but the hospital merely sent her home with a leaflet.

It was after a second seizure that she underwent an MRI scan, which revealed two meningioma brain tumours. Heather was quickly sent for emergency surgery to remove the larger tumour, recalling: “Because of COVID-19 restrictions, my husband couldn’t come into the hospital, and I was on my own in a small side room for five hours before surgery.

“They removed the first tumour, but the second one remains under active surveillance. Living scan-to-scan with a brain tumour that could turn aggressive at the flick of a switch is a nightmare.”

Despite removal of the larger tumour, Heather had to close down her health and fitness business. She now dedicates much of her time to raising awareness and funds for Brain Tumour Research, helped by a support network including husband Jack, sons Elliott and Hunter, and the wider community.

Heather has already raised over £8,000 for research into brain tumours, most recently with her participation in 99 Miles in November. She said: “I know first-hand how devastating this disease is, not just for those diagnosed but for everyone around them. My family and friends have been with me for the previous challenges I did and it was amazing.

“I’m hoping this new adventure will bring our total raised to over £10,000, which we’re all incredibly proud of and hope it helps in finding a cure.”

To help Heather and her family reach this new goal, you can donate as much or as little as you can to us via their Facebook fundraiser.