Lived Experiences — Project Fortitude

Lived Experiences

A few parts of my journey that people have asked me to write about at greater length. More of these to come.

Surgery6 min read

The Awake Craniotomy

What being awake through brain surgery was actually like — the noises, the exhaustion, and the nights that followed.

Doctors4 min read

My medical team that gave me tangible hope

I was told I had 12–18 months. My oncologist offered me options to live well beyond.

Optune6 min read

Living and Travelling with Optune

What it took to wear a device almost 24/7 – at home, at work and across 40+ flights.

Immunotherapy5 min read

Personalised vaccines at CeGaT

A vaccine designed for my own tumour, and the town that made me feel joy.

Nutrition4 min read

On Day 1 of radiation I was exhausted. By Day 2, on a new food plan, my family could see a visible difference.

Strength5 min read

Losing strength & rebuilding

Staying active through treatment, and the slow work of rebuilding my strength.

Mindset3 min read

Focusing on my mental well being

How I learned to calm a mind that had always raced — the hardest work of all.

The people4 min read

My army that stood behind

We took turns having our rough days, and gave each other strength through them.

Please read this. Everything above is my own experience and the things I personally learned along the way. It is not medical advice, and it is not a treatment plan. Every glioblastoma is different, and every decision here should be made with your own neurosurgeon, neuro-oncologist, and treating team. Treatments, drug approvals, and costs also change over time. If anything here is useful, take it to your doctors and ask them about it — that's exactly what I hope you'll do.

I have no commercial affiliation with any of the institutes, centres, clinicians, or companies mentioned here. I share them only as a starting point for your own research.