Dad given a year to live after he started seeing bubbles in the floor
A heartbreaking story has emerged from Barry, South Wales, where a father was tragically diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour after experiencing a strange visual disturbance of bubbles in the floor. David Phillips, 41, and his wife, Kirby Phillips, 38, quickly took action after David’s vision began to distort while at work, thinking that the floor had bubbled up. Following a series of medical tests at the University Hospital Wales, David was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma, a severe form of brain tumour that required immediate treatment.
In the midst of the devastating prognosis, David and Kirby made the bold decision to plan their wedding in just one month, wanting to celebrate their love and commitment in the face of such challenging circumstances. The couple’s intimate ceremony was attended by their closest family members, including their two children, Madison, 20, and Mila-Rose, 11. Kirby explained, “Whilst David was at work, he began to see bubbles in the linoleum flooring. He said it looked like the floor bubbled a bit. However, when he pressed on them nothing was there and after touching what he believed to be bubbles he felt a weakness in his hand and arm.”
The news of David’s diagnosis came in August 2024, after weeks of intermittent headaches, verbal difficulties, and visual disturbances. Despite the shock and heartbreak of the situation, the couple decided to stay strong and refuse to accept the grim prognosis given by doctors. With determination and resilience, they sought alternative treatments and therapies to help extend David’s life beyond the initial prognosis of 12 to 14 months.
Following a successful awake craniotomy procedure to remove as much of the tumour as possible, David and Kirby exchanged vows on October 19, 2024, in a beautiful wedding ceremony surrounded by loved ones. The couple’s story of love and courage has inspired many, leading to an outpouring of support from the community. To fund David’s ongoing private treatment, which includes modulated electro-hyperthermia to target cancerous cells, the family has launched a fundraising campaign that has already received generous donations from compassionate strangers.
Kirby expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received, stating, “We can’t believe everybody’s kindness and generosity. It is a testament to how much people think of David and want him to get better.” The family’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity serve as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. Kirby emphasized the importance of raising awareness about brain tumours and encouraging prompt action upon noticing any concerning symptoms, to potentially help others detect and address such conditions early on.
As David continues his battle against cancer, supported by his loving family and the kindness of strangers, their story serves as a reminder of the strength and unity that can emerge in the face of adversity. The Phillips family’s unwavering spirit and determination to fight for David’s life reflect the power of love, hope, and community support in times of great hardship. Their journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity to find light in the darkest of moments.
As the Phillips family navigates this challenging chapter in their lives, they remain grateful for the support and solidarity shown by individuals who have rallied behind them. Through their courage and determination, David and Kirby Phillips embody the extraordinary power of love and resilience in the face of adversity. Their story continues to inspire and uplift those who witness their unwavering commitment to each other and their shared fight against cancer.