The couple took it in stride, adapted as best they could, and got through the ordeal with disarming clarity. Today, Nick participates in support groups for patients, while Ashley, a nurse, has remained by his side, supporting him every step of the way. Together, they have come to terms with the unacceptable and are adjusting to their new normal.
One night, one fall, and one devastating diagnosis
It was April 2020 when Nick fell out of bed in the middle of the night due to an epileptic seizure. After Ashley confirmed he had no history of epilepsy, he was taken to the hospital, where a scan revealed a tumor the size of four golf balls. Nick, who had never been sick, found himself in the middle of a life-threatening medical emergency.
“At first, I thought he was joking, because he’s always being funny. But then I realized it was very serious.” Ashley
In the days that followed, everything moved into overdrive. The operation was scheduled for Friday, just four days after the seizure. There was no time to hesitate or seek a second opinion. A decision had to be made quickly. Ashley took charge. “She insisted that I return home before the operation. We drew up an advanced care directive, so that we would be prepared for the worst while hoping for the best”, Nick recalls.
Attentive healthcare staff
Thanks to her resourcefulness, Ashley was able to find an excellent neurosurgeon, check his references, and make sure every decision was the right one. At the same time, she took care of all the administrative issues. The intense post-operative period included three months of speech therapy to regain Nick’s ability to communicate. The treatment protocol worked well, and his neuro oncologist made a rare decision to wait before starting intensive treatment, opting for a watch and wait approach rather than aggressive therapy. This strategy proved to be successful.
Life afterwards, from vigilance to gratitude
Currently, Nick has an MRI every three months, followed by a remote consultation. He has returned to work and now lives a “normal” life, albeit a “different” one, as he has refocused on what is essential. “This experience has made us more grateful every day”, the couple acknowledges.
From private to public: Getting involved so you’re not alone
Nick is involved in charity races, non-profit organizations and participates in patient support groups to share his experience. As for Ashley, she has become an informed and active caregiver, without ever downplaying the difficulty.
Patient voices: Living with glioma
Through a collection of personal testimonials, Servier wishes to shine a light on people living with brain tumors, particularly glioma, a rare form of brain cancer.
In this publication, Marcus, Rebecca, Dirk, John, Nick and Ashley tell their stories, share their journeys and describe their fight against disease. Beyond the stories it tells, “Patient voices: Living with glioma” illustrates the Group’s desire to always place patients at the heart of oncology research and development.
