A woman who believed her symptoms were due to stress received a devastating diagnosis that gave her just one week to live. Harriet Annabelle Ward, a 51-year-old mother of three from Bristol, experienced moments of dizziness and exhaustion. Initially attributing these symptoms to stress, she never imagined a tumour had been silently growing in her brain for over a decade. Despite being examined at a hospital two years prior, the tumour went undetected until her health rapidly deteriorated. Harriet struggled to articulate complex sentences, felt constantly fatigued, dizzy, and even had a bloodshot eye. Rushed to the hospital, an MRI scan revealed a 7cm brain tumour spanning the left side of her head.
In a shocking turn of events, doctors informed Harriet that without treatment, she would have passed away in her sleep. Determined to survive for her children – Amaryllis, Islah, and Noah – aged 5, 10, and 15 at the time, Harriet faced a daunting 14-hour emergency operation to remove the life-threatening tumour. The prognosis was grim, with medical professionals warning her family that she may not survive the surgery. Facing the possibility of not seeing her children grow up, Harriet approached the operation with hope and determination. Following the extensive surgery, she woke up to the news that it had been a success. Despite the visible aftermath of the surgery, including significant swelling on the left side of her face, Harriet was grateful to be alive.
Harriet was diagnosed with a grade two Meningioma brain tumour, and subsequent intense radiotherapy treatment spanned six months. Slowly recovering at home with her family, Harriet reflected on the harrowing experience. She expressed her immense gratitude at being able to spend time with her loved ones every day, cherishing the moments with a newfound perspective on life. The near-fatal ordeal inspired Harriet to contribute to a music album featuring 22 artists, aimed at raising funds for the hospital that treated her, Southmead Hospital.
Surviving such a close encounter with death has left a profound impact on Harriet, who embraces each day with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. Her passion for music has served as a source of joy and healing throughout her recovery journey. Sharing her story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Harriet’s courage and determination to overcome the odds stand as a testament to the strength found within oneself during life’s darkest moments.
The vulnerability and bravery exhibited by Harriet offer a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritising health and seeking medical attention for concerning symptoms. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges, emphasising the significance of resilience, support from loved ones, and a positive outlook in navigating life-altering circumstances. Harriet’s story resonates as a testament to the power of perseverance, the value of gratitude, and the transformative impact of music in healing both body and soul.