Will Parry, a 32-year-old security guard from Ceredigion, thought he was just exhausted from working two jobs to support his wife and three children. However, his life took a drastic turn when he was diagnosed with a tumour the size of a fist on the left side of his brain, giving him only 12 to 18 months to live. Prior to his diagnosis, Will enjoyed outdoor adventures with his family, but his health began to deteriorate, leading to a series of alarming symptoms that ultimately changed his life forever.
Will’s wife, Leanne, noticed the warning signs during a holiday in Switzerland, where Will, who usually enjoyed local beer, abstained from drinking and seemed distant and vacant. Things took a terrifying turn when Will’s left leg began shaking uncontrollably, leading to a collapse that prompted an urgent visit to the GP. Subsequent tests revealed a glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, with a prognosis of 2 to 4 months to live. Despite the devastating news, Will underwent a seven-hour brain surgery to remove 99% of the tumour in a bid to prolong his life.
Following the surgery, Will faced the harsh reality of his condition, with doctors emphasising the incurable nature of glioblastoma. He embarked on back-to-back chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, exploring alternative therapies to extend his time with his family. The uncertainty of his prognosis has made it challenging for Will and his family to plan for the future, with their dream of visiting Canada looming as a poignant reminder of unfulfilled desires.
Amidst the turmoil, Will and Leanne have had to navigate the emotional toll on their children, with 12-year-old Tyler and 10-year-old Thia aware of their father’s illness to some extent. The community has rallied around the Parry family, offering support and fundraising efforts to create lasting memories for them. One such initiative includes a 15 Peaks Challenge in Snowdonia, where a team of volunteers will summit 15 peaks within 48 hours to raise funds for Will and his family.
As Will and his loved ones grapple with the harsh reality of his condition, they have found solace in the outpouring of support from both familiar faces and strangers. Despite the challenges ahead, the Parry family remains determined to make the most of their time together, cherishing every moment and embracing the unwavering support that surrounds them. Will’s story is a poignant reminder of resilience in the face of adversity and the power of community in times of need.
Will’s journey serves as a testament to the strength and love that bind families together in the face of life’s greatest challenges. The outpouring of support from their community underscores the importance of coming together to uplift and assist those in need. Through their unwavering courage and determination, the Parry family continues to navigate each day with hope and resilience, cherishing the precious moments they have together.