Patients with low grade gliomas and their families heard how support is available throughout their brain tumour journey at a patient support and information day in November.

The event was organised by Professor Tina Karabatsou, neurosurgeon and clinical lead for neuro-oncology and was funded by charitable donations. A superb programme involved talks from professionals from Salford Royal, the Christie, and The University of Manchester as well as charities and covered surgery, oncological options, seizure management, research, as well as quality of life topics such as sleep quality, and employment rights.

Expert advice

Patients had the opportunity to hear about research opportunities in a presentation by Professor of translational neurooncology Petra Hamerlik, get advice on social prescribing by senior AHP Lindsay Sudell, learn where their tissue goes after surgery from Professor of neuropathology Federico Roncaroli, find out about trials from Professor Catherine McBain, Consultant neurooncologist at the Christie and get DVLA advice from Lorcan Butler from the Brain Tumour Charity.

In an emotional finale, one of the patients gave an inspirational talk on how she is coping with her disease, and other patients had the opportunity to share their stories too.

The event was well-attended and received excellent feedback. One patient commented: “I enjoyed being able to catch up with the team and get the latest updates in such a relaxed atmosphere – we feel valued not just a statistic.”

Professor Karabatsou said that the event strengthened the passion the members of the team share in providing excellent clinical care as well as promoting brain tumour research and education.

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