A mother of two from St Helens, Merseyside, has died after her aggressive brain tumour was initially misdiagnosed as a sinus infection. Jennifer Roscoe, 38, was prescribed beta-blockers by her GP for what was thought to be migraines caused by a recurring sinus infection, but the medication had no effect.
On June 2, 2019, Jennifer experienced numbness in her left hand, vomiting and blurred vision, and was rushed to Whiston Hospital in Prescot. An MRI scan revealed a glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumour, which was surgically removed. She then underwent six months of concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Her husband David, 44, paid tribute to his 'inspirational' wife, saying she was passionate about raising awareness of brain tumours. Following treatment, the couple enjoyed two years together, ticking off items from Jennifer's bucket list with trips to Florida and Lapland. However, in January this year, a routine MRI showed two new tumours, requiring further chemotherapy that left her unwell.
Jennifer's condition deteriorated with confusion and dementia-like symptoms. A home care package from Willowbrook Hospice, Macmillan and the NHS allowed her to be cared for at home. She died on July 23. David praised the support and called for more Government funding for brain tumour research, noting the disease's indiscriminate nature.
Jennifer had previously raised funds through a 100 Squats or Star Jumps a Day challenge. A petition asking for increased research funding has been launched. Brain Tumour Research community development manager Matthew Price expressed condolences and urged people to sign the petition.
