Central Neurocytoma: Holly’s Brain Tumour Story

Holly was diagnosed with a central neurocytoma in April 2023 — but her symptoms had been there for months.It started with blurry and double vision after gym sessions. Holly stayed silent, convinced that if she admitted something was wrong, it might derail her plans to start law school. But when her eye doctor examined her optic nerves, it was clear something serious was happening.Holly went for an MRI — and later that day, she saw the words herself on the hospital app: central neurocytoma. A tumour sitting in her ventricles.In this honest and often darkly funny story, Holly shares:Ignoring symptoms for months and why she stayed quietThe eye appointment that changed everythingFinding out her diagnosis by reading her own MRI reportThe phone calls to her boyfriend and parentsRapid deterioration — severe pain, vomiting, and vision lossEmergency escalation and two brain surgeries (including complications)Weeks in hospital with speech, physical and occupational therapyLiving with lasting vision changesThe decision to do proton radiation at Mayo Clinic to avoid further surgerySide effects like long-term nauseaHow humour helped her cope — and how her perspective on life shiftedHer advice: having honest, practical check-ins with your support systemThis episode contains raw emotion, humour, and a clear reminder that symptoms shouldn’t be carried alone.⚠️ Content note: This episode includes discussion of brain tumour diagnosis, neurosurgery complications, hospitalisation, and radiotherapy side effects.This is one of 31 real stories being shared for Brain Tumour Awareness Month 2026.