In 2009, at the age of 49, my husband, Cyril Haggar, received a diagnosis of a meningioma brain tumour, marking the beginning of a challenging journey for us and our 3 little girls, ages 4, 6, 10.

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The path to diagnosis was arduous, marked by numerous visits to doctors, initially misdiagnosed with sciatica, and debilitating clonic seizures which presented as an uncontrollable shaking of the leg, all while feeling unheard and isolated For more information on clonic seizures   The added strain of financial difficulties from being unable to work only compounded our stress.

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Although the tumour was classified as non-cancerous, or "benign," its life-threatening nature and the substantial risks associated with surgery left us feeling alone in our battle, as we were unable to access support from relevant charities.

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With determination and reliance on credit cards, we sought out private referrals to specialists, including an osteopath who later became part of our charity (Orchard House Health).  This Osteopath urged us to urgently seek the attention of a neurologist.  Having to wait on the NHS was no longer an option as Cyril was still suffering the symptoms which were getting worse as the tumour grew.  Cyril then self-referred again to the Clementine Churchill for a private appointment where he was unfortunately diagnosed with a meninignoma on the main blood supply of the brain.  Once diagnosed was confirmed, Cyril was then on a mission to find a surgeon who would perform the life-saving operation. Cyril found Dr McEvoy carried out 2 successful operations to remove the tumour.  However, this marked the beginning of another phase of challenges for our family: rebuilding our lives post-treatment.

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• Relying on benefits

• The impact on the children

• Losing your driving licence

• Dealing with frequent appointments

• Living with a long term medical condition

• Risk of seizures/epilepsy

• Challenge of living with an uncertain future

• No longer living the independent life we had before

• Emotional and relationship difficulties

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The impact of a brain tumour extended far beyond the medical realm, affecting our financial stability, our children, Cyril's ability to drive, the constant stream of medical appointments, and the emotional toll of living with uncertainty and a changed sense of independence. We faced an uphill battle with the emotional cognitive challenges which also greatly affected our little girls.

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Our focus shifted to survivorship, as we navigated ongoing challenges with newfound resilience. Recognising the need for community support, we established the Hillingdon Brain Tumour & Injury Charity in 2009, driven by our desire to ensure that no one else in our community faced similar struggles alone. Cyril's aim became that no one and their family should endure the challenges, emotional turmoil and hardships that  he had to endure.  He wanted his voice his to be heard so thousands of people could benefit and his legacy has allowed us to continue to positively impact those lives affected by brain tumours.

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The inaugural meeting of our group brought together individuals facing similar experiences, fostering a sense of understanding, compassion, and solidarity. From tears to hugs, our group has evolved into a supportive family, providing hope and companionship on the journey toward healing.

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In the midst of darkness, we found light and hope, igniting a renewed sense of life and purpose. Our story is a testament to the power of community and resilience in the face of adversity.

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Where there is light, there is hope: where there is hope, there is life.