Last year, I wrote about the unexpected discovery of a brain tumour — and at the time, we were cautiously optimistic. The three-month follow-up scan showed no change, so we hoped it was stable. But the recent scan, a year on, has confirmed that the tumour is growing and there’s evidence of a small bleed.
My surgeon and the team’s oncologist don’t think it’s cancerous, but as many tumour patients will tell you, when it comes to brain tumours, the word “benign” can feel misleading. Just because it isn’t malignant doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous. This particular tumour is large, and it’s in a sensitive part of the brain — pressing against various things and close to the corpus callosum, which is the bridge that allows the two hemispheres to communicate.
So, I’m now preparing for major brain surgery.
My symptoms aren’t visible ones — which makes them easy to dismiss or hide. The biggest struggle has been cognitive: memory issues (especially short term), extreme fatigue, and an inability to focus for any length of time. Tasks I would once have breezed through — like building the new Indigo Twist website — became unexpectedly difficult. I’ve also been dealing with leg pain and foot numbness, which may be related, since the tumour sits near the region that controls movement in the legs.
Adrian and I are visualising a positive outcome. The medical team is hopeful, but the reality is that recovery will be slow and I may face some short-term disabilities along the way.
With all this in mind, I’ve made the difficult decision to close both my art business and the Indigo Twist dye studio for now. (Yarn lovers: – big discounts over on Indigo Twist until 21st May 2025!).
The art studio — my peaceful, light-filled happy place — will still be here when I’m well enough to return. And I plan to do just that. I may not be running a business for a while, but I do intend to keep creating.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported me over the years, whether through kind words, purchases, or encouragement. I can’t tell you how much that has meant to me – you’ve helped make this creative life possible, and I’m grateful beyond words.
With love,
Glenda xxx
So sorry to read this Glenda, but while there is life there is always hope!
My husband had a benign brain tumour removed 13 years ago, it was tricky as he was 81 at the time, but he survived a long up a n d is still here today – we had a hard time on the day as there was no news each time we rang Addenbrookes until finally being told he was in recovery.
Hopefully Adrian will be able to be with friends when you have the ok and be kept same
My very best wishes to you both and prayers for a successful outcome xxx
hi Veronica – thanks so much for sharing that – hearing great survivor stories like that is wonderful. Adrian has offers from friends and family, so he knows he has support there if he needs it, I know it’s going to be really tough for him on the day. xx
So sorry to hear this Glenda. Sending love and hugs to you and Adrian.
Thanks so much Margaret, we’ll get through this like everything else we’ve faced. xx
Oh Glenda, I wish you all the best in this journey you really didn’t want to make and I’m so glad that Adrian will be supporting you all the way. Life can be a real bummer at times, but just try to imagine this as a temporary glitch – I just know you’ll get through it.
I still look fondly at the old Barnard Castle days but really pleased you love Scotland – rejoice in its magic…
Good luck to you both xx
Barbara
Thanks Barbara, yes, we’ll get through this. We love our little slice of Scottish heaven here, but we look back fondly on the BC days too! xx
So sorry to hear your news Glenda but good that they are hopeful and hopefully it wont be too long before you are happily creating again. Sending love and positive vibes to you and Adrian. X
thanks Valerie – I hope your recovery is progressing well too. ❤️
Thank you, radiotherapy in Edinburgh finished yesterday, so far, so good. x
please never give up your art, it changes for you as well as with you.
Dear Glenda,, so sorry to hear about your health problem.
I may not have bought anything from you for years but still think of the wonderful weekend retreat you organised years ago. Also going to Barney to buy craft items. I do not craft as much these days but have always found the Chocolate Baroque stamps come out at Christmas and make fabulous images.
All the very best for your future operation and ongoing health. Much love and best wishes from Joyce Dixonxx