A 28-year-old man with terminal cancer, who says he had ‘zero symptoms’ before being diagnosed, is taking on a series of challenges to raise money for Guy’s Hospital to help future patients.
Mason Morgan, from Balham, was diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour in September last year.
“I had zero symptoms,” he explained.
“That weekend I was packing and sorting stuff out for Australia. Then I vividly remember picking up a white T-shirt and blacking out for 15-30 seconds… After that, I rang NHS 111, and they told me to go to King’s College Hospital, and I didn’t leave there for four weeks,” Mason recalled.
He had a high-grade (aggressive) brain tumour and had surgery at King’s College Hospital to try and remove it. Unfortunately, the nature of the tumour meant complete removal wasn’t possible, although surgeons removed as much as it was safe to.
Despite the devastating diagnosis and ongoing treatment at Guy’s Cancer Centre, he continues with his job in marketing for a finance company in London Bridge.
Mason has embarked on a mission to raise funds for cancer research and support. He will take on challenges to raise money including running the London Marathon.
Mason shared about his participation in the Cancer Survivors’ Day fashion show at Guy’s Hospital: “I wanted to do it to give back for all the care, assistance, and support I’ve received. I was more excited than worried or nervous.
“I would recommend it to other cancer patients and cancer survivors. It builds your confidence and makes you more comfortable with your diagnosis.”
Mason’s efforts extend beyond the runway. He has set an ambitious fundraising goal of £15,000, intending to support Guy’s Cancer Charity and Macmillan Cancer Support.
To achieve this, he plans to undertake a series of challenges, including the Vitality London 10K, the Royal Parks Half Marathon, and the London Marathon.
“My friends, family and colleagues have all been supportive. I can’t thank them enough. You can sit on the sofa and be in a rut and be depressed but I strive not to be like that. I try to be the opposite.
“It stops me from doing lots of things. It’s a challenge every day. Making something to eat is a challenge because I can’t use my right side as well as I used to. You have to figure out certain ways around it. It’s part of me and you have to deal with whatever cards you are dealt.”
Brain tumours are a significant health concern, especially among young adults. Statistics reveal that brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in individuals under 40, reducing life expectancy by an average of 27 years.
Mason’s determination to raise awareness about this issue and contribute to research efforts is pivotal in addressing this critical health issue.
Guy’s Cancer Charity supports Guy’s Cancer to transform cancer care through the very latest developments in personalised care.
Click here to donate to Mason’s fundraising.