Aspley dad Simon Harrington, 48, is defying the odds and savouring every precious moment with his wife, Adele, and their young son, Novak. Diagnosed with a grade four glioblastoma, the fastest growing and most aggressive form of brain tumour, Simon’s journey is marked by his commitment to creating memories and raising awareness about this little-known cancer.
Glioblastoma is a complex disease, often challenging to diagnose and characterized by its rapid growth and aggressiveness. It is known for presenting with few early symptoms or risk factors, making early detection difficult. Sam’s story sheds light on the struggles faced by patients dealing with this condition.
The Diagnosis and Determination
Simon’s journey began in October 2021 when he started experiencing subtle symptoms, such as difficulty with speech and memory, and eventually seizures. Concerned, he sought medical attention, which led to an MRI and a referral to specialists at Briz Brain and Spine.
In December of the same year, he received the official diagnosis of grade four glioblastoma. Simon’s determination to make the most of his time led him to immediately undergo surgery to remove the tumour.
Cherishing Every Moment & Raising Awareness
For this Aspley dad, every interaction with his family holds immense significance. From simple pleasures like nights out at the pub to engaging in home renovation projects like painting the fence, each experience is treasured. Despite the challenges posed by his illness, Simon’s spirit remains unbroken, as he and his family focus on creating meaningful memories.
The Harringtons are not only dedicated to cherishing their own moments together but also to raising awareness about glioblastoma. This relatively unfamiliar illness demands greater attention, and Simon’s openness about his experience aims to provide information and support to other patients and their families.
The family’s journey has been bolstered by the medical care they have received, particularly from Wesley Hospital, where Simon’s treatment plan, including surgery and subsequent radiation and chemotherapy, has been diligently managed.
In the midst of their challenging journey, the Harringtons have found support in unexpected places. Vivien Briggs, a neurosurgical nurse practitioner at Wesley Hospital, has been source of strength for the family. Her dedication and compassion have been pivotal in helping them navigate the complexities of treatment and its emotional toll.
Fundraising for a Challenging Road Ahead
While Simon and his family have shown remarkable resilience, the financial burden of medical bills and the challenges of daily life have been significant. A GoFundMe page has been set up by Kirsten Reilly to support the Harrington family during these trying times. The fundraiser aims to provide them with the financial support needed to manage medical expenses and maintain their quality of life.
Simon’s story is one of courage, determination, and the power of embracing every moment. As he battles glioblastoma with unwavering resolve, his journey serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Through raising awareness and rallying support, Simon and his family are not only creating lasting memories but also contributing to a greater understanding of glioblastoma and the importance of supporting those affected by it.
Published 29-Aug-2023