A widow has called for greater awareness of brain tumour symptoms after her husband died following a misdiagnosis of sleep apnoea. James Lamerton, a 40-year-old father from Leigh-on-Sea in Essex, died in November 2021 after his stage four glioblastoma was initially mistaken for the sleep disorder.
James, a teacher and musician, had complained of frequent trips to the bathroom at night and fatigue. His wife Myriam, 32, initially suspected prostate cancer, but tests were clear. He later developed headaches, dizziness, and vision problems. A sleep clinic diagnosed sleep apnoea, attributing his symptoms to lack of sleep.
Despite eight visits to the doctor between August and mid-October, the tumour remained undetected until James experienced severe eye pain and was unable to eat. An MRI scan revealed a stage four glioblastoma and hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid on the brain. Surgery to reduce the tumour led to complications, and James died shortly after.
Myriam is now working with Brain Tumour Research to raise awareness. 'We need to change people's perceptions of brain tumours,' she said. 'This could also happen to them and the people they know and love.' Charlie Allsebrook from Brain Tumour Research noted that James's story is not unique, urging the public to recognise that brain tumours can affect anyone.
