A man was left in shock after being diagnosed with two brain tumors, initially mistaking his symptoms for a common hangover. George Wade, 42, from North Yorkshire, UK, first started experiencing symptoms in March last year, following a day at the Cheltenham races.
At the time, George attributed his symptoms, including a severe headache, nausea, and sensitivity to car headlights, to a hangover after drinking too much alcohol. However, the situation took a more alarming turn in the following month when he experienced what he believed was a stroke: the left side of his body became weak, and his face began to droop.
The Journey to Diagnosis
Despite undergoing several tests that all came back normal, George’s brother-in-law, Dr. Caspar Wood, insisted on a further MRI scan, suspecting the possibility of a stroke. George’s wife, Ellie, and Dr. Wood were concerned, as his symptoms seemed to warrant further investigation.
“I was told I have two brain tumors – a large one on the right side of my head, the size of a tennis ball, and a smaller one, the size of a squash ball, in the middle,” George explained. “The larger tumor might have been growing for 20 years, and only now, it’s grown so big that it began pushing on my brain, causing symptoms.”
George Wade was diagnosed with two tumors (SWNS)
A Shocking Diagnosis
When George received the results, he was left stunned and shocked. “I honestly felt helpless, and I was thinking, ‘How do you survive with two brain tumors?'” George shared. The diagnosis came as a complete surprise, especially given that he had been physically active, running marathons and living a healthy lifestyle prior to the onset of his symptoms.
The brain tumors were later confirmed as astrocytomas, a type of tumor that develops from astrocytes (star-shaped cells in the brain and spinal cord). According to Cancer Research UK, astrocytomas are among the most common brain tumors found in both children and adults.
A Difficult Road to Recovery
George underwent an intense treatment regimen, including an eight-hour surgery to remove the tumors, followed by six months of chemotherapy. “Last year was a conveyor belt of treatment,” George recalled. One particularly difficult side effect of the steroids used in his treatment was a form of psychosis, which he described as a scary, out-of-body experience.
Despite the challenging ordeal, George is focusing on his recovery and is determined to stay positive. He continues to undergo MRI scans every three months to monitor any changes in the tumors. “I feel fitter and healthier than I’ve ever been after what’s happened,” George said, acknowledging that although the situation is frustrating, the early detection was key.
George has run 20 marathons (SWNS)
A New Lease on Life
Since his diagnosis, George has worked closely with a nutritionist and adopted a special diet, which helped him lose weight and regain his strength. “My brother-in-law, who’s a GP, said there’s nothing wrong with your heart, so get running again,” George added.
In addition to his recovery efforts, George has also turned his attention to giving back. He is fundraising for brain tumor charities by auctioning painted gavels through The Gavel Trail and Auction, supporting The Brain Tumour Charity and The National Brain Appeal. The auction will be held in London, where artfully designed gavels, commissioned by auctioneers from across the UK and beyond, will be sold to raise money.
A Marathon Man: Raising Funds for a Cause
George is no stranger to marathons, having completed 20 in total. Earlier this year, he ran the London Marathon in 3 hours and 16 minutes, raising nearly £50,000 for brain tumor charities. His story is a testament to resilience, showing how a man can turn a life-altering diagnosis into an opportunity to help others.
“I may have been diagnosed with two brain tumors, but at least I know what’s happening, and we caught it in time,” George said, emphasizing the importance of early detection. His journey is an inspiring reminder that health challenges don’t define us—they motivate us to live more fully and help others along the way.
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Conclusion: Turning Adversity into Action
George Wade’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies and not dismissing symptoms, even when they seem minor. His journey from a misdiagnosed “hangover” to surviving brain tumor treatment showcases the strength of the human spirit. His fundraising efforts and dedication to spreading awareness about brain tumors are commendable, turning his personal challenge into a source of hope for others battling similar conditions.
