At just 35 years old, Jason Lewis-Thorne, a father of two, is grappling with the heartbreaking reality of planning his funeral. Diagnosed with an aggressive form of stage four cancer known as anaplastic astrocytoma, Jason has been told he has only months to live. The loving father, whose children are just six and two years old, is using his remaining time to raise awareness about brain tumors, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in those under 40.
Jason’s battle began with severe headaches that doctors initially dismissed as stress. He described the pain as “the worst brain freeze” and “intensive sharp stabbing pain” through his forehead. Despite trying several painkillers, including paracetamol, ibuprofen, and Sulphadine, nothing could alleviate the intense pain.
“These headaches happened three or four times a day, the pain was unbearable for those three minutes, and I couldn’t focus on anything other than the headache,” he shared. The persistent pain left him withdrawn, unable to enjoy daily life, and constantly fearing the next attack, told the Mirror.
After being prescribed Naproxen and BetaBlockers, his symptoms worsened, including vomiting and collapsing. Vomiting, a key sign of increased brain pressure, prompted further investigation, and Jason underwent an MRI scan on September 2, where doctors discovered a tumor “so large” it was affecting the other side of his cranium.
Jason recalled his shock and disbelief: “My immediate emotions were shock, and denial, how can this possibly be true? It’s not that I’m an unhealthy person. I don’t smoke and I don’t drink. I’m so young, what are my kids going to think? My wife, family, work, and friends? You think it will never happen to you. Let alone at 33 and relatively healthy.”
Following the diagnosis, Jason underwent a six-hour craniotomy to remove 85% of the tumor. Despite the success of the surgery, a biopsy revealed the tumor was anaplastic astrocytoma, leading to 33 sessions of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, scans later showed the tumor had spread to three additional areas, and with no clinical trial options available, Jason now has a prognosis of six to nine months.
Raising awareness about the lack of funding for brain tumor research, Jason stated: “Just 12 percent of adults survive for five years after diagnosis. What I find tremendously shocking is over £700 million is spent on cancer research in the UK every year, yet less than 3 percent is spent on brain tumors.”
Jason’s former colleague, Nathan Oakwell, has launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses, with plans to raise funds for Jason’s family. Nathan shared: “Jason has now been told by consultant oncologists that he has just months left to live and that he should spend the valuable time he has left creating happy memories with his loved ones.”
Jason’s fight against this devastating illness is now focused on raising awareness and ensuring his children are financially supported after his passing.
