Receiving medical care overseas may result in additional quality time with loved ones

A 47-year-old mother of two, diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour, is raising funds to access medical treatment abroad that is not available through the NHS. Emma Ward, from York, was diagnosed with a grade-four brain tumour in March and has already undergone surgery and chemotherapy.

With her current treatment scheduled to finish in January, she aims to raise 150,000 to receive immunotherapy in Germany. This treatment could reduce the size of her tumour and potentially extend her life, allowing her more time with her daughters and husband, Dan.

"I still have so much to live for and so much to give. I can't leave my future to chance when a possible solution exists," she explained.

Support from family, friends, and colleagues has been overwhelming, helping her raise over 80,000 in under a week. "People have shown incredible generosity, especially at this time of year," she said.

Emma first noticed symptoms in February, initially thought to be a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), which mimics stroke symptoms. When her symptoms returned in March, scans revealed a grade-four brain tumour requiring surgery to remove as much as possible. "The tumour was close to critical nerves, so I had to be awake during surgery," she recalled.

Following surgery, she completed 30 sessions of radiotherapy in Hull along with chemotherapy. While chemotherapy has limited effectiveness for her type of tumour, she has been feeling relatively well. "Im back at work, keeping busy in the mornings while the kids are at school," she said.

Despite the treatment, her prognosis remains limited to 1215 months from diagnosis. "The support Ive received has been incredible, and now I hope to travel to Germany for a treatment option not available in the UK," she shared. "I want to maximize the time I have with my husband and children."

Emma is planning a special family Christmas and hopes to start her treatment in Germany in January or February.

Author: Chloe Ramirez