Stephanie

“Back in 2017 I kept being sick so I went to see my doctor.

It was initially thought to be an issue with my ears which was affecting my balance.

But after consultation with a further two doctors I was diagnosed with a benign brain tumour.

I had an operation to remove the tumour in March 2018. It was wrapped around my spinal cord as well as the cerebellum. The surgeon was able to remove nearly all of it, and I now undergo a scan every year to monitor the two small fragments left behind.

It was a great shock and my life (and that of my husband) have changed immeasurably. I cannot do the things I did before.

My greatest loss has been my sense of independance.

I’ve lost my voice, I have coordination issues, I can no longer drive, my eyes are affected and I can only read with difficultly as I now have double vision and need to wear a prism. I eat on one side and I have tremors in both hands.

My regular visits to the Therapy Centre prove beneficial in several ways.

I particularly appreciate the balance machine. When I stand on this clever device it prompts me to keep in balance during various movements which simulate everyday activity; I can monitor how I’m doing on a screen in front of me and I can adjust how much of a challenge I want to face on any particular session. It really helps a lot.

Other pieces of equipment at the Therapy Centre help me maintain the best level of fitness that I can.

I like to get my heart pumping a bit with some aerobic exercise, under supervision of the professional and volunteer staff who are all so helpful and attentive.

The facilities at the Therapy Centre are unique. On the weeks I cannot attend for one reason or another I really miss it.”