Journey that began with double vision leads to a fatal diagnosis
A 30-year-old British woman thought the double vision she experienced during a long flight was a minor issue. However, this seemingly innocent symptom was the onset of a life-threatening illness.
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Abi Smith, who lives in the West Midlands region of England, attributed the double vision she experienced on a plane while on vacation to cabin pressure. However, throughout her holiday, Abi also experienced weakness in her right and left legs, as well as serious problems with her grip strength.
After struggling to hold kitchen utensils, the young woman became concerned and went to the hospital, but her initial CT scan showed no findings.
Upon returning to her country, Abi underwent a detailed examination at Queen's Hospital in Burton upon Trent.
An MRI scan revealed that Smith, who was initially suspected of having suffered a stroke, actually had a glioma tumor that had progressed from the base of her brain down to her spinal cord.
Doctors initially considered the possibility of a stroke due to the loss of movement on her right side; however, the results showed that the tumor had spread from the base of her skull to her spinal cord.
Abi Smith, who was alone at the time of her diagnosis, described her feelings: “I was scared, but knowing that the doctors had a treatment plan put me at ease.” The main symptoms of glioma-type brain tumors include double vision, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, severe headaches, seizures, nausea and vomiting, and personality and cognitive changes. High-grade glioblastomas, in particular, are known as the most dangerous form of this cancer.
Due to its location, the tumor at the base of Abi's brain was deemed inoperable. However, surgeons successfully removed the spread in her spinal cord through a successful operation. In the post-operative period, she underwent intensive radiotherapy and 6 months of chemotherapy. The young woman described the treatment process by saying, “The treatment was heavy, and losing my hair was also exhausting. But the fact that the tumor shrank significantly made it worth it.”
Abi Smith still continues her regular check-ups. At the same time, she plays an active role in various charity campaigns to raise awareness about brain tumors. While supporting the Brain Tumour Research organization's campaign during this year's Christmas season, she also raises funds through the proceeds from her own card brand, “The Cancer Card.”