Torbay mother defies deadly brain cancer odds to watch son start school

A Torquay mum who feared she would never live to see her son’s first day at school is celebrating a deeply emotional milestone after being diagnosed with a deadly brain tumour.

Clare Smerdon, 37, was told in July 2022 that she had a grade 4 astrocytoma, an aggressive and life-limiting brain tumour, just after her son Teddy had turned 13 months old.

Now, two years later, she has defied the odds to proudly watch Teddy, aged four, put on his uniform and walk into Barton Hill Academy for his very first day.

Clare said: “When I received my diagnosis, I didn’t think I’d be alive today to see Teddy start school. This is such a huge milestone for us. I no longer feel like I am dying and feel incredibly lucky, but I know others may not get the same chance. That’s why I’m calling on the Government to increase funding for research into brain cancer, more must be done.”

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to the disease since records began in 2002.

Clare’s symptoms began in early 2022 with visual disturbances, flashing lights and rainbow-like patterns across her vision. An MRI scan at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth revealed a 7cm tumour.

She said: “I felt as though people didn’t understand what I was going through. I was desperate to find out what was causing the immense pain in my head and changes in my vision.

"When I got the diagnosis I remember thinking that I’d just had a baby, and I wanted to be around to watch my son grow up for as long as I could.

"Then the wait for surgery was horrendous. I was losing myself and acting completely out of character. I even forgot I was a mum, Teddy spent more time with his dad, and we drifted apart. That was heartbreaking.”

In August 2022 Clare underwent a six-hour operation at Derriford Hospital to remove the tumour, followed by six weeks of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Treatment left her cognitively impaired and emotionally isolated.

She said: “Two weeks after surgery I returned home, and doctors confirmed I had a grade 4 astrocytoma which is also classified as a glioblastoma. On hearing the pathology results I knew my life was over. The treatment made me sick, and I could only stomach a meal in the evening. At the same time, I got to spend more time with Teddy, and we were both getting to know each other again.”

At a routine scan in August 2023, Clare was given a prognosis of just two to three years to live.

She said: “The thought of not being here to watch Teddy grow is destroying. I’m not sure if another operation is something I want due to the implications that comes with it. My eyesight is already compromised, and my speech has been impacted, so now I just watch and wait.

"There are so few treatment options for brain tumour patients, and the ones we do have are invasive and often life changing.

"I’ve looked into clinical trials abroad, but for most working-class families, the cost is impossible. I’m angry and frustrated at how little support and research funding there is.”

Clare is now partnering with Brain Tumour Research to raise money and awareness by taking part in the Walk of Hope this September.

She said: “I want to do everything I can to help fund the research that will lead to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. If sharing my story and take part in fundraising encourages even one more person to join the cause, it will be worth it.”

Letty Greenfield, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: “Clare’s story is a powerful reminder of both the personal impact of a brain tumour diagnosis and the urgent need for change. We are so inspired by her strength and determination.

"Brain Tumour Research is committed to funding sustainable research at our dedicated Centres of Excellence, but we also campaign for the Government to increase funding. It’s only through increased investment that we can accelerate new treatments and, ultimately, find a cure.”

Brain Tumour Research is calling for a national annual spend of £35 million to bring survival rates in line with other cancers such as breast cancer and leukaemia.

To support Clare’s challenge visit: justgiving.com/page/clare-smerdon-2