EPISODE · Mar 2, 2026 · 15 MIN
From Headaches to Brain Surgery | A Childhood Craniopharyngioma Story
from Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show · host Claire Bullimore
Julia is the mum of Scarlett, who was diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma just two weeks after her 5th birthday.What began as headaches and persistent vomiting was initially dismissed as a stomach bug, food intolerance, and even a urine infection. But Julia knew something wasn’t right.After multiple visits to A&E and continued symptoms, a CT scan finally revealed the cause: a brain tumour.In this powerful and emotional account, Julia shares:The red flags that were missedThe frustration of not being heardThe moment doctors said “brain tumour”Emergency transfer for specialist neurosurgerySurgery and the placement of a reservoirProton beam therapyLong-term hormonal impact and adrenal insufficiencyManaging daily medication and emergency injectionsThe incredible resilience of a five-year-oldThe charities that supported their family through treatmentScarlett’s tumour was confirmed as a craniopharyngioma — a benign but complex tumour located near the pituitary gland and optic nerves. While not cancerous, its position has lifelong implications.Now over a year post-treatment, Scarlett is stable and thriving.This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to parental instinct and understanding that “benign” does not mean simple.⚠️ This episode discusses childhood brain tumours and surgery.If this story resonates with you, please share to help raise awareness during Brain Tumour Awareness Month.
What this episode covers
Julia is the mum of Scarlett, who was diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma just two weeks after her 5th birthday.What began as headaches and persistent vomiting was initially dismissed as a stomach bug, food intolerance, and even a urine infection. But Julia knew something wasn’t right.After multiple visits to A&E and continued symptoms, a CT scan finally revealed the cause: a brain tumour.In this powerful and emotional account, Julia shares:The red flags that were missedThe frustration of not being heardThe moment doctors said “brain tumour”Emergency transfer for specialist neurosurgerySurgery and the placement of a reservoirProton beam therapyLong-term hormonal impact and adrenal insufficiencyManaging daily medication and emergency injectionsThe incredible resilience of a five-year-oldThe charities that supported their family through treatmentScarlett’s tumour was confirmed as a craniopharyngioma — a benign but complex tumour located near the pituitary gland and optic nerves. While not cancerous, its position has lifelong implications.Now over a year post-treatment, Scarlett is stable and thriving.This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to parental instinct and understanding that “benign” does not mean simple.⚠️ This episode discusses childhood brain tumours and surgery.If this story resonates with you, please share to help raise awareness during Brain Tumour Awareness Month.
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From Headaches to Brain Surgery | A Childhood Craniopharyngioma Story
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