AN ABERGELE woman treated for a brain tumour the size of a small orange is calling for more awareness of subtle symptoms that could be associated with a tumour.

In June, 41-year-old Nikki Bennett woke up with a headache and a puffy eye.

Attending her nearest A&E department, preliminary tests didn’t show anything, but clinicians later ordered a CT scan, which revealed a 6x5cm mass in the front left of her brain.

Nikki was quickly referred to The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust in Liverpool where, within days of the discovery, she was booked in for emergency surgery.

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She said: “I was surprised when they initially told me, but very quickly I was on autopilot, finding out what the next steps were and getting the ball rolling.

“There was no way I was letting this mass get the better of me. Other than the little headache in my temple and my eye lid looking different, I would’ve had no idea I had a brain tumour.

“I remember the team at The Walton Centre were very surprised that, with the size of the mass, I was still going to the gym and driving and that I hadn’t suffered a seizure.

“My surgeon was very specific that I was not to continue with strenuous activity, as a seizure could be fatal. This news was a big shock to us, but we knew it had to be taken seriously.”

After the tumour was successfully removed, Nikki recovered on Cairns Ward, where she went from strength to strength.

But after 10 days at home, Nikki began to feel the headache again, so called the neuro-oncology specialist clinical nursing team, who told her to return to the hospital immediately.

After further investigations, she was readmitted to intensive care, with what turned out to be meningitis.

Nikki added: “The care I received both times I stayed at The Walton Centre were exemplary. The clinical team did everything they could to bring me back to health.

“I am extremely grateful to The Walton Centre and the team’s quick work in removing the brain tumour.

“Unusually, I felt incredible after the surgery. I felt like I could’ve cartwheeled out of the hospital I felt that good! I can’t thank them enough for looking after me so well.

“Having this high level of care made me think about others who may not have the same experience.

“That’s why I think it’s so important to raise awareness of brain tumour symptoms, and the work the team at The Walton Centre do to speed up the process for cancer patients.”

Liam, Nikki’s husband, stayed in the charity-funded Home from Home relatives’ accommodation while she was receiving life-saving treatment.

Inspired by this and the care Nikki received, he’s hoping to raise more than £5,000 for the hospital next year.

He said: “Nikki wouldn’t be here today if not for their excellent care and dedication. It’s a small gesture, but I had to do something to say thank you.”

You can read more about Liam’s fundraising challenge on: www.thewaltoncentrecharity.org/fundraisers/zero-to-hero-charity-challenge-