After my Brain tumour diagnosis, everything changed.

I underwent an awake craniotomy, and although it was considered a success, it left me with severe aphasia. For a time, it was uncertain how much of my communication ability I would recover, or whether I would ever be able to return to work.

As an Optometrist, this had the potential to be what's known in football terms as a "career-ending injury."

Thankfully, neuroplasticity is real. Bit by bit, I relearned how to speak and communicate. I regained my motor function. With support, time, and determination, I returned to clinical practice 12 months later.

This journey has been far from easy, but I have been incredibly fortunate to have the support of my partner Jessica, who has been a constant anchor. Encouraging me every day to be better, to grow, flourish and to keep my chin up even when I occasionally slip.

My heartfelt thanks also go to my family and friends, particularly Sinead, Jaclyn Pugh & Ethan Loughrey, who have been unwavering in their support and encouragement throughout the most challenging moments of this journey.

I’m also deeply grateful to everyone at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists, who have supported and accommodated my return to work, which will not be forgotten, especially Rebecca Donnelly's patient and kind attitude toward my challenges.

I’ve also been especially fortunate to have the guidance and listening ear of Lorcan Butler, who knows this cruel disease all too well.

Now, 14 months on, there is another turn in the road. My recent scans have shown changes in the tumour, and my medical team has advised a course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the hope of stopping it, perhaps for good. So once more into the breach for more treatment.

Unfortunately, I've had to step back again from my role as an Optometrist for now.

You might assume that my life has worsened since my diagnosis, but in many ways, the opposite is true. I’m more grateful than ever for my health (something I no longer take for granted) and for a mind that still allows me to think, imagine, and create.

I’ve gained a much clearer sense of what truly matters, how to value time, face challenges with purpose, and live with greater intention and clarity about what is meaningful and what is not.

If you want to read more about my journey, I have written a blog about my experiences here - eyeamconnor.com

Also, Ethan Loughrey, Daniel Melarkey FIA, Damien Edgar have been incredibly generous and have set up gofundme. If you'd like to donate, you can do so here.
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Posted by Andrew D Price on behalf of Connor McCann.