Wexford Mam Shares Billy's Story As Brain Tumour Ireland Launches 'Heads Up' Campaign

This week marks National Brain Tumour Awareness Week, running from October 20th to 26th, a time dedicated to raising awareness, sharing information and supporting those affected by brain tumours across Ireland. To mark the occasion, Brain Tumour Ireland has launched the Heads Up campaign, aiming to highlight the often-overlooked symptoms of brain tumours in children and teenagers. Brain tumours are a rare but serious condition and early detection is key to improving outcomes. The Heads Up campaign focuses on educating parents, teachers and healthcare providers about the warning signs that could point to a brain tumour in young people. Brain Tumour Ireland hopes that this initiative will empower families to seek medical advice earlier potentially saving lives. As part of National Brain Tumour Awareness Week, the charity is hosting a special webinar for parents to provide valuable information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. The week will also feature a range of creative and educational events aimed at raising awareness and fostering a supportive community for those affected by brain tumours. One of the most poignant stories shared during this week is that of Billy whose mam Valerie spoke on Morning Mix about her son Billy's diagnosis. Wexford mam Valerie explained how she never would have expected her son’s symptoms to be related to a brain tumour. Billy’s story is a stark reminder of how subtle the early signs can be and how important it is for parents and caregivers to trust their instincts when it comes to unusual symptoms. "Initially, we would never have thought that Billy’s excessive water drinking would lead to a brain tumour diagnosis. But the ‘Heads Up’ campaign has really helped us understand that even the smallest signs can be linked to something bigger. If you feel something isn't right, trust your instincts and continue to follow up. Knowledge is power and it’s crucial to act quickly" Brain Tumour Ireland encourages everyone to take a moment this week to learn more about the signs of brain tumours, particularly in children and teenagers, as early diagnosis can significantly impact treatment outcomes. The charity's website www.braintumourireland.com offers a wealth of resources, services and supports for those affected by brain tumours. Listen to Valerie & Billy's story here: