Lin was always very fit and active. She played volleyball from the age of 12 before taking up netball. She had played a netball match just four days before her first seizure in January 2017 and was even playing ball games with her grandchildren the night before.
Following the unexpected seizure she was rushed to hospital and, after a series of tests, we were given the devastating news that she had a life-limiting brain tumour - the worst possible kind. The tumour was damaging the nerves that control the left side of the body which meant she lost all movement in her arm and leg and she was left disabled.
Our spirits were high when she underwent a successful surgery at the end of January where 98% of the tumour was removed and some more mobility had been regained. She was fighting well and had responded to all treatment well which meant, after four weeks in hospital,she was able to continue her treatment at home.
She began physiotherapy to regain her movement, as this was her biggest frustration being so active prior to her illness. This was partially successful but she continued to have seizures which would set her back each time.
Lin also started on a daily course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy which lasted for six weeks. This intense course of treatment gradually took its toll on her leaving her exhausted.
In July 2017 following an MRI scan we were given more devastating news that the tumour had returned and all treatment would be stopped.
The family had already begun introducing alternative homeopathy treatment in the form of a strict, sugar-free diet but with no other conventional options, money was raised and alternative treatments were sought in the hope of prolonging her life.
Although still wheelchair bound, we continued hydrotherapy and physiotherapy sessions to try and get her mobility back. As a family, we tried to lead a life as normal as possible.
Lin started deteriorating in November 2017. Her speech began to be affected as did her mobility. One week before Christmas she went to sleep and never properly regained consciousness.
At only 55 years old, she passed away on Christmas eve 2017 with her family by her side. She leaves behind a loving family including her husband, 2 daughters and 2 grandchildren.
During her illness a crowdfunding page was set up to raise money to pay for her alternative treatments. We have decided to donate the surplus to two charities, Brain Tumour Research and Carers UK.
Brain Tumour Research because the statistics of surviving Lin's type of brain tumour were severely low and we understand research into this illness is heavily underfunded.
We chose to donate to Carers UK as throughout the course of Lin's illness her care was provided solely from close family members and we wish to support other people who may need to care for a loved one.
Lin was a truly wonderful person and will remain in our hearts forever.