This is my amazing, strong and courageous friend, Jess, 34, with her family: her partner, Lewis; their first son Evan, 3; and their youngest James, 1.

On 15th January 2024, totally out of the blue, Jess suffered a massive seizure at home. The next day she was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

On 27th March 2024, Jess underwent brain surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible - the surgeons did a great job but were not able to remove it all without affecting Jess’ mobility.

On 12th April 2024, the surgeons were finally able to tell Jess and her family what type of tumour they are facing. Unfortunately, it was not the news we were all hoping for - a grade 4 Astrocytoma. Essentially this means that the tumour is treatable but not curable. At this point, they are unable to tell Jess how long they will be able to manage it for. Whilst the prognosis may not be so good, if anyone is going to beat the odds it’s Jess!

Once Jess has recovered enough from surgery the next steps will be radiation and chemotherapy. This will take place in Southampton which is 30 mins from where they live and Jess will have to travel there every day for 6 weeks. Once the surgeons see how the tumour reacts they will have more of an idea of the outlook for them.

Jess, Lewis and the boys are currently facing everyone’s greatest nightmare. Lewis is self employed and Jess is an incredible 24/7 mum. The current financial landscape for us all makes things even more difficult. Whilst money won’t change the horror that they are living through, it will help with the practical challenges they are facing and the ones that are to come - it will allow Jess and Lewis to focus on the fight of their lives and the boys.

Every penny adds up so if you can spare even the smallest of amounts to support this beautiful family at this traumatic time we would be eternally grateful. You may know them, you may not, but the kindness of family, friends and strangers gives hope in the darkest of times. Thank you for your support.