Grandma's Temper and Forgetfulness Reveal Brain Tumor Diagnosis

A Grandma's Journey: From Confusion to Resilience

Jan Burrell, a 62-year-old grandmother from Stroud, Gloucestershire, experienced a sudden and alarming change in her behavior that eventually led to a life-altering diagnosis. What began as migraines and forgetfulness turned into a series of concerning symptoms that ultimately revealed the presence of a brain tumor.

For years, Jan attributed her symptoms to aging or the early stages of Alzheimer’s. She recalls how she started noticing lapses in memory, such as forgetting to lock up homes after cleaning. Despite these signs, she dismissed them as normal parts of growing older. However, in January 2021, she felt an intense sense of losing control, becoming short-tempered and struggling with self-recognition.

The turning point came during a simple trip to the chemist. On the way, Jan experienced a loss of vision and difficulty speaking. Her husband, Steve, noticed her struggle and rushed her to the emergency room. There, it was discovered that she had suffered a seizure caused by a brain tumor the size of a fist.

Diagnosis and Treatment

After being transferred to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, a CT scan confirmed the presence of a meningioma, a type of slow-growing brain tumor. The news was devastating for Jan, who initially refused to believe it. "All I remember is shouting 'no!' at the top of my voice," she said. The fear of not seeing her grandchildren grow up overwhelmed her.

Jan underwent a craniotomy to remove the tumor. The surgery was successful, but she now lives with quadrantanopia, a permanent loss of vision in one quarter of her visual field. She continues to have annual scans to monitor any remaining tumor growth.

Recovery was challenging. Strong medication caused hallucinations, and she struggled with daily tasks. Despite this, Jan found strength in her creativity. She decided to write a book for her grandson, Finn, who was just four years old at the time of her surgery. The book, titled Finn's Wonderful World, was written slowly by hand, with every word flowing directly from her heart.

A Book with Purpose

It took three years for Jan and Steve to save enough money to publish the book. Every copy sold contributes to Brain Tumor Research, a charity close to their hearts. Jan described the experience as giving her a new purpose. "To see Finn enjoy the story I created for him, it's the most special gift," she said.

Letty Greenfield, community development manager at Brain Tumor Research, praised Jan’s courage and resilience. "Jan's story is incredibly moving and a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity that can come out of adversity," she said. "By sharing her journey and donating profits from her beautiful book, Jan is helping raise awareness and funding for a disease that remains hugely underfunded."

Living with the Aftermath

Despite her challenges, Jan continues to live life to the fullest. She is now able to read her book to Finn, who has grown into a four-year-old boy who looks exactly like the one she drew. Her journey serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love and determination.

For those interested in purchasing a copy of Finn's Wonderful World, all proceeds go to Brain Tumor Research. The book is available on Etsy UK through the account JanBurrellArt.