Chelsea was just 19 when she was diagnosed with a pilocytic astrocytoma.
It started with headaches.
At first, she thought it was exams. Then stress. Then dehydration. Then hormones — as she was told repeatedly.
She went to the doctor multiple times.
But nothing changed.
Her symptoms worsened. The headaches became unbearable. She couldn’t walk in a straight line. She struggled to hold her head up. Still, she was dismissed.
Until her mum stepped in.
Chelsea was rushed to A&E, where a scan revealed a satsuma-sized brain tumour.
Within 24 hours, she was in surgery.
In this honest and emotional interview, Chelsea shares:
• Being repeatedly dismissed by doctors
• The symptoms that were missed
• Emergency brain surgery at 19
• Waking up in ICU
• Learning to walk again
• Losing independence during recovery
• The emotional impact of isolation and depression
• Finding support through The Brain Tumour Charity
• Becoming a young ambassador to raise awareness
Chelsea’s story highlights the importance of listening — both to your body and to patients.
Her experience is a powerful reminder that sometimes, people know when something isn’t right.
This episode is part of a 31-day series sharing real brain tumour stories for Brain Tumour Awareness Month 2026.
If this episode resonates with you, please share it. Every story helps raise awareness.
⚠️ Content note: This episode discusses brain tumour diagnosis, surgery, recovery challenges and mental health impact.
