Jonathan Ingram, a teacher from Forton, Somerset, has defied grim predictions after being told he could be blind and dead within a month. At age 36, during a teaching exchange in Melbourne, Australia, Jonathan was diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumour, a shocking revelation that came after he noticed subtle vision problems and persistent headaches.
What began with gradual loss of peripheral vision and difficulty seeing color was initially mistaken for emotional strain following the recent loss of his father. It wasn’t until an optician told him, “You’re not driving home from here, you can’t see,” that the seriousness of his condition became clear. Urgent scans revealed the tumour wrapped dangerously around his carotid arteries, making surgery risky but necessary.
After undergoing major brain surgery just days after his diagnosis in November 2000, Jonathan’s recovery was remarkable. He vividly recalls the moment he first saw colors again after the operation, describing it as a life-changing experience. Returning to the UK with his family, he resumed teaching but remained vigilant.
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Fifteen years later, in 2015, headaches returned, and another MRI scan identified a second meningioma near his pituitary gland. Fortunately, this tumour didn’t require surgery and remains stable under regular monitoring at Southmead Hospital in Bristol.
Living with a brain tumour for over two decades has not deterred Jonathan. Though he still experiences double vision and headaches, he embraces an active lifestyle and is motivated to raise awareness and funds for Brain Tumour Research. This year, he is participating in the charity’s “200k in May” challenge, aiming to cycle 200 kilometers to support groundbreaking research for a disease that claims more young lives than any other cancer.
Jonathan’s message is clear: “The worry is always worse for the family. But you can’t let a diagnosis stop you. You might need to slow your pace but never stop. Keep going.” His faith, trust in medical experts, and determination have been pillars of his journey.
Katrina Jones, head of community and digital fundraising at Brain Tumour Research, praised Jonathan’s courage and commitment, emphasizing how vital supporters like him are in funding research efforts toward better treatments and ultimately a cure.
Jonathan feels he has been given a “second chance for life” and hopes that increased awareness and research funding will improve outcomes for others facing similar battles.
