An architect who attributed persistent headaches and dizziness to long working hours was diagnosed with a brain tumour after suffering a seizure. Craig Alexander, now 38, from Monmouth, had experienced tremors and visual disturbances for years, which he blamed on stress and dehydration from his job.
In May 2023, he had a tonic-clonic seizure while in a car with a colleague, losing consciousness and fitting for several minutes. He was taken to Hereford Hospital, where an MRI scan revealed a 75mm by 35mm astrocytoma deep in his brain. Surgeons told him the tumour had been growing slowly for years.
Craig underwent a seven-hour craniotomy to obtain a biopsy, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The treatment left him unable to walk or speak temporarily, and he continues to struggle with fatigue. He has since given up his career and requires regular scans to monitor the inoperable tumour.
Now campaigning for Brain Tumour Research, Craig endorsed the charity's manifesto for Wales, which calls for expanded clinical trials and improved care. He described feeling 'like I was falling through the cracks' due to disjointed NHS services. Dr Karen Noble, director of research policy at Brain Tumour Research, said: 'Brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer death in children and young people, yet patients in Wales are being locked out of innovation.'
