A 20-year-old drama student living with an aggressive brain tumour has married his girlfriend after being told his disease has progressed and no further treatment options are available.
Owen Copland , from Liverpool, was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in November. The third year Liverpool John Moores University student underwent surgery and radiotherapy but devastatingly, his latest scans revealed significant progression and his prognosis is extremely stark, possibly just days.
Earlier this month, Owen’s family and friends organised a wedding for him and his 21-year-old girlfriend Sarah, which took place in Owen’s family home on 8 March. The commitment ceremony included a live singer, photographer and flowers themed around Owen’s favourite colour, yellow.
Owen’s mum Gill Copland said: “With less than 24 hours’ notice, Owen’s best man Luke delivered the most beautiful speech we've ever heard. It was a wonderful day, which we will all cherish forever.
“Owen is staying positive and determined to enjoy every day and putting all his fight into this. I passionately believe there should be more funding into research for brain tumours. He and others who’re suffering deserve this change to happen. While all cancers are devastating, this is in a league of its own. Unlike other cancers, this was something I’d never heard of; the awareness is just not there.”
As they bravely share their story, Gill and Owen’s sister Jane are helping to raise awareness of this hideous disease. They are urging people to spread the word and donate to Brain Tumour Research this Wear A Hat Day, as no family should have to experience this nightmare.