Three years ago while in the very early stages of pregnancy I had a bleed on the brain. I suffered stroke like symptoms and it took me months to recover and rebuild. Even having to re-learn my balance and fine motor skills, like holding a pen and using a knife and fork.

It turns out I had a brainstem cavernoma (an abnormality in the blood vessel said to resemble a raspberry). And in those early scary days Cavernoma Alliance, a tiny charity for this rare neurological and spinal condition was a life line for me. With the other members generously sharing their care and stories so I didn’t feel so alone.

At the end of 2024, whilst hoping and wishing I could make it to the five year mark without further interruption, I learned from a routine MRI that I’ve had another smaller bleed. So I’m now exploring gamma knife treatment to “fix” the pesky raspberry deep in my brain.

I’d already signed up to the Snowdon hike as it’s the 20th anniversary year for Cavernoma Alliance, but now it seems all the more poignant for me to take part. Wish me luck, thanks for reading and grateful for any donations and support!