Weston Coyney
Irene, 81, survives against the odds after brain tumour diagnosis
Now her family have baked a cake in the shape of a radiotherapy machine to thank staff at Royal Stoke for their 'incredible work'
Kathie McInnes
Irene Cantrell, left, with daughter Donna Cantrell
An 81-year-old mum has survived against all odds after being diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour.
Irene Cantrell, from Weston Coyney, went from being fit and healthy to losing her ability to talk within the space of just a few weeks.
She was diagnosed her with a grade four tumour in February 2019 and referred to experts at Royal Stoke University Hospital, where she underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Now two years on, Irene's family have thanked the 'incredible work' of the hospital in helping to keep her alive.
Daughter Donna Cantrell even made a homemade cake in the shape of a radiotherapy machine to give to the staff.
The 44-year-old, who also lives in Weston Coyney, said: "Mum is still walking, talking, potting plants and living a happy life with true strength, courage and more fight than ever.
"We know the ending of this sad journey is not too far away, but we have made so many memories and we will fight as a family to the bitter end.
"The oncology team have been amazing throughout. Dr Joseph, Catharine James and Paula Bee have been truly fantastic, along with everyone in radiotherapy. Everyone becomes an extension to the family.
"To anyone living with cancer, or supporting a loved one with cancer, stay strong, stay positive. You've got this."
Donna recalled her mum's rapid deterioration back in February 2019.
"My mum was a fit and healthy 79-year-old with no illnesses, no medication and living life to the full," she said. "By the end of February 2019, mum lost the ability to talk and suffered seizures and even though we acted quickly with the onset of symptoms, mum was diagnosed with a grade four brain tumour.
"This type of tumour comes with a poor prognosis; however we adapted quickly, remained positive and faced each day with love, happiness and true determination and fight."
Brain tumours can affects anyone of any age. They occur as a result of an abnormal growth or spread of cells from within the brain or its supporting tissues that can damage the brain or threaten its function.
Brain tumours are divided into four classifications – grades one and two are low-grade, while grades three and four are classed as high-grade.
Kelly Hill, chief dosimetrist said: "The diagnosis of a brain tumour can be scary and devastating for families. But there is always hope and we have been fortunate to have patients who have survived to tell the tale and give hope to others."
She said the neuro-oncology and radiotherapy team were delighted to receive the unusually shaped cake.
"We have never seen such a brilliant designed cake before, the team were really pleased with the outcome of Donna's mum and really appreciate the gift," she added.
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Royal Stoke University Hospital