I was initially diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma in April 2015. After I managed to get over the shock I said to my husband Kev that if I could do one thing to help someone else diagnosed with a brain tumour not feel so alone and isolated as I had felt then I would feel a lot happier.

I then found out about Brain Tumour Support charity which holds monthly meetings in Truro about 10 miles from where I live and so I started to attend the meetings on a regular basis. Finding the charity was the best thing I have ever done. I have also had telephone counselling through the charity which I cannot praise enough, it has helped to shape me into the person I am today.

Prior to my 60th birthday in July 2017 I decided to host a 70s/80s themed party/fundraiser to say a huge thank you to the charity and also to give something back for all that they have done and continue to do for me. The charity also inspired me to design and get my first tattoo done.

Since that time I was asked to become a Fundraising/Support Volunteer for the Cornwall group. I continue to do what I can to support others and to raise the profile and funds for the charity and it is something I am passionate about.

I am still on 'watch and wait' and have regular MRI scans and have no idea what the future holds. But having been made retired due to ill health from a 25 year career, I feel as if I have found a new purpose in life.

I would like to dedicate this Champion Fund to the memory of Graham, a very dear friend who sadly lost his life to a Grade 4 brain tumour in June 2017. He was only in the Cornwall group for a short time during which time he made a lasting impression on all who knew him .