SECAM Paramedic Aaron Bennett

Surrey Police Constable Sean Burridge

On 6th April 2022, Aaron visited the local opticians for an
eye examination.  He had some blurred vision and assumed he needed a new
prescription.  Nothing could prepare him and the family for what happened
afterwards...

He was told his optic nerve pressures were high and that he
needed to be referred to the local hospital for an assessment.  Following
confirmation at the hospital and a few scans later, he was diagnosed with a
very large 7cm meningioma brain tumour.  The following days were a blur as
he tried to come to terms with this news and what it would mean for him and his
family.  He was taken to Southampton neurological centre (Wessex neuro)
for assessment and an operation was booked for a month later.  He started
new medications and was discharged until surgery.  Over the following
weeks his condition worsened and his symptoms progressed.  This forced him
to have surgery earlier than anticipated.   He spent 12 hours in
theatre and 24-48 hours in intensive care.  He was discharged after 5 days
and the care and support he has received from Wessex Neuro has been lifesaving
and amazing.  He not out of the woods yet and has still started
radiotherapy to hopefully catch the part they can't reach. It is
anticipated that he will lose his hair due to this treatment and so in support
of him as a friend and fellow member of the “Blue Light Family” I am going to
shave my hair off to raise funds for this charity. He is going to join me so
that he also can not only raise money but be in control of what happens to his
body with the treatment.

Aaron has been a paramedic for 26 years, currently with the
South East Coast Ambulance service. Think of the number of lives he has saved.
Sean is a serving Police Constable with Surrey Police serving for the past 24
years. They both strongly believe in the “Blue Light Family” and that all in
the services should look after each other. 

Smile4Wessex is a charity that funds projects which support
the work of Wessex Neurological Centre.  By improving quality of care and
range of treatments available, improving the quality of facilities available
and facilitating research into neurological conditions which will have a direct
bearing on patient care and further understanding of future conditions and
their treatments.  Smile4Wessex are not just for brain tumours.  They
work with stroke victims, acquired brain injuries, spinal injuries,
haemorrhages and traumatic brain injuries (of which I have seen their work with
a young boy who I dealt with following an RTC).    

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of
40 than any other cancer. 1% of cancer research budget is spent on brain
tumours. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally
secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or
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