Craig Dunn, a 35-year-old first-time father from South Shields, has been given up to 12 months to live after his brain tumour returned and spread to his spine. He is now focused on creating videos and birthday cards for his three-year-old daughter Serena so she can remember him as she grows up.
Devastating news after routine scan
In May this year, a routine scan revealed that the Medulloblastoma tumour had returned and cancer had spread to his spine, despite him experiencing no symptoms. Dunn had undergone surgery to remove the tumour last year and was in remission. He said: "It's been awful. Mentally, it's probably the worst news anybody could ever receive. It's just hard to overcome it and I'm trying my best for my daughter."
Diagnosis and treatment journey
Craig was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain tumour, in May 2025 after suffering from severe headaches for two weeks. He underwent major brain surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Routine check-ups in September and January showed positive progress. However, a scan in May revealed the tumour had returned and was now very aggressive. Doctors have given him months to a year to live.
Creating lasting memories
Craig is determined to make the most of his remaining time. He has rearranged his wedding to fiancée Nabela and will marry her at the local registry office on July 10. He is also creating a "dear dad's diary" with videos and birthday cards for Serena. He said: "I think what hurts me the most is the fact that she's going to grow up and she's not going to remember me. And if she does remember me, it's just going to be through pictures, videos, and stuff like that."
Fundraiser and awareness
A GoFundMe page has raised over £56,000 in three days to support Craig and his family. Dunn was unable to obtain life insurance after being diagnosed with Sepsis in 2018. The fundraiser also aims to raise awareness of Medulloblastoma in adults, as it is extremely uncommon and has limited research and treatment options.
