Wayne Lewis, 62, from Bridgend, was diagnosed with a meningioma in July 2022 following a series of unexplained symptoms that culminated in a terrifying stroke.
The former RAF serviceman has signed up to Brain Tumour Research’s 200k in May challenge, where supporters aim to walk 200 kilometres over the month to help fund more research, increase awareness, and bring hope to thousands of families affected by brain tumours.
Wayne said: “Looking back, I believe the earliest signs began in May 2022, while on holiday. After a day in the sun, I collapsed in the bathroom. Although I was unable to move or speak, I put the episode down to overindulgence and exhaustion. I just needed a doctor, but I didn’t want to ruin the holiday so, I carried on.
“After returning home, things continued to feel off. I experienced unexplained fatigue, mood changes, veering while walking, dropping items from my left hand, and even blurry vision. I dismissed these as signs of ageing or the effects of a pending cataract operation.”
When Wayne woke up to a bright and sunny morning in July 2022, he had no idea his life was about to change forever. Just minutes before setting off to drive his grandson to Cardiff Airport, Wayne suffered a stroke.
He said: “I couldn’t move or speak, but I could hear everything. I knew I was having a stroke. I was terrified, but looking back it saved my life, I would never have known I had a brain tumour.”
Having been told that no ambulances were available Wayne was rushed to Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend by his family. Following emergency admission Wayne’s speech slowly returned and he was sent home the same day following a CT scan with seizure medication.
Wayne said: “Just two days later, I woke in the middle of the night completely paralysed on my left side. Again, no ambulance was available, and I had to be taken to hospital by my family. Once again, the journey was scary, I remember being slumped in the back seat.”
A further CT scan revealed Wayne had a bleed on his brain.
Doctors consulted with the Neurosurgical Department at University Hospital Wales in Cardiff who advised an immediate MRI scan which uncovered something far more sinister than the stroke itself, a mass on Wayne's brain surrounded by fluid.
Faced with brain surgery and the risk of permanent brain damage or even death. Agreeing to surgery Wayne had his tumour removed on 5 August 2022. Although most of the tumour was successfully removed, a small 3mm piece was left behind due to its attachment to a vital blood vessel.
Wayne said: “The day before surgery, my wife and daughter came to the hospital with me. I think I cried for five minutes solid when they left not knowing if I would see them again. After surgery, when I woke up and heard the words ‘it went well’, I cried with relief.”
Through support from his physiotherapists and family, Wayne was discharged within days. Three years since initial diagnosis, Wayne continues to go for regular MRI scans and has been focused on recovery and remaining positive.
Wayne said: “Brain tumours kill more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer, yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease since records began in 2002. That has to change.”
Louise Aubrey, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: “Wayne’s story is a powerful reminder of how cruel and indiscriminate brain tumours can be. His determination to turn personal tragedy into action is truly inspiring. We are so grateful for his support, every step he takes brings us closer to a cure.”
Brain Tumour Research funds sustainable research at dedicated centres in the UK. It also campaigns for the Government and larger cancer charities to invest more in research into brain tumours in order to speed up new treatments for patients and, ultimately, to find a cure. The charity is the driving force behind the call for a national annual spend of £35 million in order to improve survival rates and patient outcomes in line with other cancers such as breast cancer and leukaemia.
To support Wayne’s 200k in May challenge or find out more about Brain Tumour Research, visit Wayne Lewis is fundraising for Brain Tumour Research