Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show

In this deeply personal episode, Julia opens up about her father’s diagnosis with astrocytoma, a type of brain tumour, and how it reshaped her family and her understanding of invisible disabilities.

Julia shares the emotional rollercoaster of discovering her dad’s condition—initially hidden until chemotherapy made it undeniable. She reflects on how the diagnosis affected their family dynamics, especially communication and emotional expression. Julia also explores how her relationship with both her parents evolved, the impact of her father's permanent brain damage, and her journey through counseling and journaling to process grief and uncertainty.

This conversation sheds light on the importance of empathy, creating safe emotional spaces, and the need for greater awareness around the often unseen struggles people with brain tumours face.

🎧 Topics Covered:

• Coping with a parent’s cancer diagnosis

• The silence and stigma surrounding illness in families

• The power of journaling and therapy in emotional healing

• How invisible disabilities affect daily life and relationships

• The emotional burden of caregiving and overprotection

🧠 Key Takeaway:
Every family copes differently, but open communication, emotional support, and awareness of invisible disabilities can change everything.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Sarah’s life changed in an instant when she experienced a grand mal seizure. The cause? An oligodendroglioma grade two brain tumour. Facing the unknown, she underwent awake brain surgery, remaining calm in a situation that would shake most.

Post-surgery, she found healing through positivity, spirituality, and self-education, even watching brain surgeries to understand her journey. A quote that resonated with her:
"When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." – Wayne Dyer

Hear Sarah’s incredible story of strength and perspective in the latest episode of Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show Podcast!

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

In this episode, Michelle shares her journey with oligodendroglioma grade 2, a brain tumour she was diagnosed with in 2010 following a grand mal seizure. Despite the challenges, she gave birth to a healthy daughter and found strength in her community. Michelle opens up about her experiences with surgery, radiation, and the lasting effects of an acquired brain injury. She discusses the importance of support networks, the anxiety of MRI results, and her advocacy for increased funding for brain cancer support services. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of community.DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

In this episode of Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show Podcast, Madi shares her powerful journey with an oligodendroglioma grade two brain tumour. Her story begins with unexpected seizures that led to a life-changing MRI. Initially told her tumour was slow-growing and not a major concern, Madi's move to a new province meant navigating a complex healthcare system and seeking new specialists.

She opens up about the challenges of getting clear answers, the difficult decision to undergo a biopsy, and the unexpected complications that followed—including issues with her vision. Through research, support groups, and personal resilience, Madi found strength in understanding her diagnosis and redefining her future.

Her journey is a reminder that a diagnosis isn’t an expiration date—it’s a new path to navigate.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

In this episode, Christine shares her journey with angiomatous microcystic meningioma, a diagnosis that profoundly impacted her daily life. She opens up about the significant symptoms she faced, the emotional toll of waiting for surgery, and the relief of finally receiving treatment. Christine describes how surgery brought noticeable improvements but also introduced unexpected complications during recovery.

Despite the challenges of pain management and emotional fluctuations, she found strength in the support of her family and friends. Christine reflects on her experience, emphasizing that brain surgery was less daunting than she had feared. With no further treatment required, she expresses gratitude for skilled medical care and the importance of clear communication throughout the process.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

In this powerful episode, Imogen shares her journey of love, loss, and resilience after her husband, Wayne, passed away from glioblastoma in May 2024.

Together since their teens, Imogen and Wayne built a life filled with music, family, and dreams for the future. But in early 2022, their world changed when Wayne began experiencing unexplained symptoms. What followed was a heartbreaking battle with brain cancer—marked by treatments, clinical trials, and unwavering hope.

Through it all, Wayne remained the incredible husband and father he always was, facing his diagnosis with strength and love. His story is a reminder of the urgent need for brain tumour awareness and research.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

At just 20, Steph Still’s life changed forever. Unusual symptoms led to a devastating diagnosis— Ependymoma. Surgery was her only option, followed byRadiotherapy, but it came with a heavy price. She had to relearn how to move, how to speak… how to live. The battle didn’t end in the operating room. With a paralyzed vocal fold and a long road to recovery, Steph faced unimaginable challenges. But she wasn’t alone. Hermother—a former ICU Senior Sister—stood by her side. Community support and exercise became her lifeline, proving that movement is healing.

Determined not to let cancer define her, Steph went back to studying and is now a Cancer Rehab Specialist and fitness instructor helping others find strength in their own recovery. She knows firsthand the importance of mental well-being, communication, and the right support.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Claire Harris shares her emotional journey on the podcast, recalling the terrifying moment her son Jake was diagnosed with a brain tumour at just four years old. Initially misdiagnosed, it was a persistent health visitor who helped fast-track the MRI that changed everything. From major brain surgery to a surprisingly quick recovery, Claire reflects on the resilience of children, the overwhelming fear as a parent, and how she became overprotective in the years that followed. She also highlights the crucial need for awareness—educating parents and doctors about early symptoms can save lives.

Her message?

Stay informed, stay hopeful, and trust your instincts.

💙🎧 Listen now! #BrainTumourAwareness #ChildhoodIllness #Parenting #Podcast
DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

In 2017, Vicki was diagnosed with an astrocytoma after battling severe migraines and vision issues. She faced surgery, complications, and an awake craniotomy with remarkable resilience. Despite the tumour growing to Grade 3, she endured chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and seizures—all while holding onto hope for her daughter. Now, her tumour is shrinking, and her story is a powerful reminder that strength and belief can defy the odds.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Maria Peta was diagnosed with a meningioma on New Year’s Eve 2009 after her initial symptoms were misdiagnosed as migraines. A second opinion revealed a golf ball-sized tumour, changing the course of her life. As she navigated the fears and uncertainties leading up to surgery, she used humour to cope.The operation marked the beginning of a long recovery, where Maria struggled with her identity and emotional well-being. Counselling played a vital role in helping her process her experiences. Over time, she connected with others affected by brain tumours, finding purpose in advocacy and support work with Brain Tumour Research.Now, 15 years later, Maria reflects on her resilience, the lessons learned, and how time has shaped her journey from diagnosis to self-acceptance.DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

In this inspiring episode, Kiera Mitchell shares herpowerful story of resilience after being diagnosed with a Medulloblastoma brain tumour at just 19, and left her with mobility issues. She talks about her challenges of rehabilitation and how fitness became a crucial part of her recovery. From struggling with mobility to regaining independence, Kiera’s journey highlights the importance of perseverance, strength training, andmental resilience. Now living life on her terms, she encourages others tokeep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. Tune in to hear Kiera’s messageof hope and determination.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Katie Smith shares her journey of being diagnosed with an oligoastrocytoma, the challenges she faced with treatment and recurrence, and her ongoing battle with uncertainty and grief. She discusses her advocacy for brain tumour research and the impact of her experiences on her family. Katie emphasizes the need for awareness and the emotional complexities of living with a brain tumour while also highlighting her determination to make a difference for others in similar situations.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Madi Ruby, has been living with a brain tumourfor more than half of her life. First diagnosed at 23 in 1995 with a 6cmmeningioma, she underwent surgery and built a successful career in TV sales andIT, all while raising her son with her husband, Neil. But in 2013, her tumourreturned—this time with multiple growths.

Despite setbacks, Madi refused to let herdiagnosis define her. She retrained as a counsellor, earned a PhD,

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Steve Blake was diagnosed with an inoperable meningioma. For 18 months, he battled misdiagnoses before finally hearing the words "You have a brain tumour." The emotional toll of brain surgery and the harsh reality of recovery tested him in ways he never imagined. Brain surgery was just the beginning—he had radiotherapy, and the challenge of rebuilding life followed. Now, Steve is turning his journey into purpose—advocating, fundraising, and sharing his story so no one else has to face this journey alone.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Julia’s world changed with an incidental finding—a sphenoid wing meningioma that doctors said could never be fully removed. From the emotional toll of diagnosis to the complexities of brain surgery, radiotherapy, and Gamma Knife treatment, her journey has been anything but easy. Yet, through it all, she’s leaned on community, humour, and resilience to keep going. With support from Brainstrust and the kindness of her neurosurgical secretary, Julia now shares her practical tips and hard-earned wisdom for navigating life after surgery. She knows she’s one of the lucky ones—and she’s here to help others find strength in the face of uncertainty. #BrainTumourAwareness #Meningioma #BrainTumourAwarenessMonthDISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Matthew Warne shares his journey with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), detailing his initial diagnosis, treatment experiences, and the emotional and physical challenges he faced. He discusses the importance of mental resilience,exploring alternative treatments, and making lifestyle changes to cope with the disease. Matt emphasizes the significance of support systems and planning forthe future while navigating the complexities of medical advice and personal health management.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

In this heartfelt interview with Sarah Long, we learn abouther son Oscar, a young boy full of life and promise. Oscar was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and devastating brain tumour. His initial symptoms— a tilted head and memory issues—marked the beginning of afight no family should ever have to endure. Throughout his battle, the family focused on creating joyful memories, cherishing every precious moment together. But as thedays passed, palliative care became crucial, offering comfort in Oscar’s final moments. His parents channelled their grief into a mission to raise awareness, funding, and hope for future research. They organized events, rallied communities, and even placed tiles at the Brain Tumour Research "Centresof Excellence" in Oscar’s honour—symbols of love, loss, and the desire to make a difference. Their story underscores a heartbreaking reality: the severe shortfall in government funding for brain tumour research, especially for rareconditions like DIPG. In this interview, Sarah shares how Oscar’s legacy inspires action and how the family is determined to ensure that no other child faces what Oscar did without hope for a cure.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Ryan Vest shares his journey of battling an Astrocytoma, a brain tumour, detailing the challenges he faced from diagnosis to recovery. He recounts the misdiagnoses, three surgeries, and the long road to rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of mental health and support systems throughout his experience. Ryan highlights the significance of setting small goals and the impact of community support in overcoming the struggles associated with his condition.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Nicki Hopkins shares her emotional journey following her husband David, also known as 'Did', diagnosed with a brain tumour. She recounts the initial symptoms, the diagnosis of a glioblastoma multiform, and the challenges her family faced. Nicki discusses the importance of quality of life, her coping mechanisms through fundraising, and the impact of loss. Ultimately, she emphasizes the need to live in the moment and create lasting memories, honouring her husband.DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Matthew Lawford shares his personal journey with an Oligodendroglioma diagnosis, detailing the challenges of living with seizures, the realities of tumour treatment, and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of adversity. His story emphasizes resilience, the impact of mental health on physical well-being, and the power of positivity in navigating life's challenges.

DISCLAIMER: Any of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Stephanie Day talks about her son George, who was diagnosed with a Choroid Plexus, a type of brain tumour, at merely 10 weeks old. Stephanie talks about receiving the diagnosis, the hurdles of surgery, and the ongoing process of understanding and supporting George's developmental requirements, including autism. Throughout the story, she talks about the significance of medical support, parental advocacy, and her resilience, as well as that of herself, her husband, and her son.

Mel Hennessy's emotional journey from the moment shereceived her brain tumour diagnosis to her recovery process. It highlights the challenges she faced as a new mother, the medical hurdles she navigated, and the emotional turmoil that accompanied her diagnosis and treatment. Mel's storyis about resilience, love, and the struggle to maintain normalcy in life-altering circumstances.

DISCLAIMER: Any of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Sarah shares her journey of being diagnosed with a right frontal lobe oligodendroglioma. She recounts the struggles of misdiagnosis, the emotional turmoil of living with an inoperable brain tumour, and the challenges of navigating treatment options. Sarah emphasizes the importance of support systems, therapy, and personal growth throughout her experience.

DISCLAIMERAny of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Neil Parker shares his personal journey of being diagnosed with GBM Glioblastoma Multiforme, detailing the initial symptoms, the shock of the diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment options he explored. He emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes, support from loved ones, and maintaining a positive outlook on life despite the challenges of living with cancer.

DISCLAIMER: Any of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Cat talks about her brain cancer journey and of dealing with a brain tumour diagnosis, exploring the medical challenges faced, the emotional toll on the individual and their family, and the importance of raising awareness about such conditions. It highlights the resilience required to navigate treatment and the crucial support systems in coping with the diagnosis.

DISCLAIMER: Any sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours are not intended to provide and do not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The Aunty M Brain Tumours content is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Will Roth shares his journey of being diagnosed with an anaplastic astrocytoma in 2016, navigating treatment, and the emotional and physical challenges he faced. He emphasizes the importance of palliative care, support systems, and advocacy for brain cancer awareness. Will also discuss fertility considerations during treatment and express hope for future advancements in brain cancer treatment. His story is one of resilience, gratitude, and the power of community support.

DISCLAIMER: Any of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medicalor psychiatric treatment.

Ali shares her journey of being diagnosed with a Glioma, the challenges she faced in navigating the healthcare system, and the decisions she made regarding treatment options. She discusses her experiences with surgery, chemotherapy, and the importance of mental health and support systems during her recovery. Ali also emphasizes the need for more research and advocacy in brain cancer. DISCLAIMER: Any of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Sara Crosland shares her journey of being diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma brain tumour, the challenges she faced during recovery, and how she found strength through endurance sports. She discusses the impact of surgery on her daily life, the importance of community support for brain tumour survivors, and the founding of the Beyond Recovery Project, which emphasizes nature-based activities for healing and well-being.

DISCLAIMER: Any of the sites under Claire Bullimore or Aunty M Brain Tumours is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal, or other professional advice. The content on Aunty M Brain Tumours is designed to support, not replace, medical or psychiatric treatment.

Today on Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show, Matthew White talks about his astrocytoma.

In the months leading up to his diagnosis, Matthew noticed subtle signs of fatigue, but life was busy, and he brushed them off. Everything changed one evening during a football game when he experienced an intense and disorienting sensory episode—a seizure. Over the next few days, he endured multiple seizures, leading to scans that revealed a brain tumour, later identified as an Astrocytoma with both low- and high-grade features. This began a whirlwind journey through surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, marked by physical, emotional, and familial challenges.

Matthew recounts the complexities of navigating treatment and its impact on his life. From the anxieties surrounding surgery and its uncertain outcomes to the disciplined routine of daily radiotherapy, he reflects on how he found strength in small milestones, medical teams, and his family's unwavering support. Open communication with his children transformed fear into understanding, while candid conversations with healthcare professionals helped him feel actively engaged in his care.

Despite losing his ability to work and drive, Matthew discovered unexpected opportunities and meaningful connections through public transport and everyday interactions. He emphasizes the profound emotional and physical toll of living with a brain tumour yet maintains a focus on resilience, positivity, and cherishing moments with loved ones. Matthew’s journey is one of acceptance, hope, and determination to embrace life despite its uncertainties.

In this podcast episode of Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show, Lisa shares her Astrocytoma story. She began experiencing persistent headaches as a teenager. Initially attributing them to stress from her architecture studies, she sought massages, visited doctors, and even tried treatments for migraines, all without finding relief. It wasn’t until a severe seizure led to her hospitalization that the actual cause was discovered: a cyst on a brain tumour in the right hemisphere of her brain.

“Keep positive and focused on getting well. Some days will be hard, but you can’t appreciate the highs without the lows.” - Lisa