A teenager had to undergo a drastic procedure to remove part of his skull after what started as severe headaches which actually turned out to be a rare brain tumour. Chad Nelson, now 21, was on the cusp of beginning a new chapter with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary at just 17 when he began suffering from headaches and blurred vision.
An optician’s appointment revealed cause for concern, leading to a referral to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, where a scan uncovered a mass. It was there that Chad received a diagnosis of a brain tumour, and further tests confirmed it to be a ganglioglioma. This is a rare type of low-grade tumour that represents only one to two percent of all brain tumour cases.
Chad underwent three operations – one to alleviate pressure and two more to excise around 70 percent of the tumour. A subsequent fourth surgery was necessary to remove part of his skull due to an infection.
Chad Nelson receives radiotherapy
The series of surgeries has left Chad with a non-functioning pituitary gland and damage to his frontal lobe, resulting in short-term memory loss and a strict medication regimen.
His mother, Lucy, aged 60, a former P.E and maths teacher from Torquay, said: “Chad was excited to join the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, as his brother, Joe, is in the army, but he felt the sea was best for him. He was thrilled when he applied for a position and received the letter of acceptance.”
She said: “It was such a shock to all of us when his sudden headaches and blurred vision led to the diagnosis of a rare brain tumour, and I was so sad to see my little boy’s dreams come crashing down.
“But we’ll always be grateful to David Stoyles at Vision Express for recognising something was wrong. He’s become a family friend, and Chad often says ‘Dave saved my life!'”
Chad’s brain tumour was first spotted during a routine eye test at Vision Express in August 2020. Following the discovery, he underwent surgery to alleviate pressure on his brain caused by fluid accumulation at the tumour site.
Chad Nelson and mum, Lucy Nelson
Chad had further operations in September 2021 and January 2022 to remove most of the tumour, as well as a procedure to take out part of his skull. To combat the growth of his tumour, Chad also received radiotherapy treatments.
Lucy shared: “These last few years have been really tough on Chad and the family as a whole.Although his naval career didn’t happen, Chad wanted to continue in catering while undergoing radiotherapy.
“He managed a few shifts, but the memory loss and mental fatigue were too much. I’m so proud of him for finding purpose in volunteering at the local hospital, the YMCA, Rowcroft Hospice, and Phab Torbay” – a local group for people with disabilities.
She continued:”They all love him, and I’m really pleased he’s still positive. In fact, he has just been awarded his National Volunteering Certificate.
“Although the tumour is being managed by bi-annual scans, the acquired brain injury is continuing to cause him serious health issues like dehydration and fatigue. We live from scan to scan.”
Chad and Lucy have committed to fundraising for Brain Tumour Research, with Lucy gearing up for the renowned TCS London Marathon in April. She will be running to support the pioneering work at the Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Plymouth.
“I’ve never run a marathon before, but my local running club secured a place, and I was thrilled when my name was drawn out.
“I’ve always seen people running it on TV, raising money for charity, and only Brain Tumour Research came to mind for who I wanted to raise funds for.”
Chad Nelson’s surgery sca
Despite acknowledging she may not be the fastest runner, Lucy’s deep-seated passion for the cause fuels her commitment: “I know I won’t be quick but I’m very passionate about raising money for this cause because research into brain tumours is so underfunded.”
The challenges of marathon training seem minor to Lucy compared to her son’s battles: “I may find it difficult at times during the training and the run, but I only need to look at my son and all the hardship he’s gone through. If he can stay positive after all this, then a little bit of pain doing a run is no comparison.”
Commenting on their inspirational story, Carol Robertson, national events manager at Brain Tumour Research, remarked: “Chad and Lucy’s story highlights the devastating impact a brain tumour diagnosis can have on an individual and their family. ” Praising their fortitude, she continued, “Their determination to raise funds and awareness despite the challenges they face is truly inspiring.
“Every step Lucy takes in the London Marathon brings us closer to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for this cruel disease. The organisation anticipates proudly supporting Lucy in the April race. To extend support to Lucy in the London Marathon, donations are welcomed here.