TV star, Craig Russell, recently shared his journey of being diagnosed with a brain tumour in an attempt to raise awareness about cancer. The 47-year-old actor, known for his role as Marc Antony in Netflix’s African Queens: Cleopatra, first noticed something was wrong when he began experiencing intense headaches and a shooting pain in the back of his head two years ago. These symptoms, unlike his usual migraines, were accompanied by an unusual whooshing sound. Additionally, Craig started becoming increasingly forgetful and clumsy, raising concerns about early-onset dementia. His wife, Kate, initially worried that it could be a sign of something serious, despite Craig’s young age.
With Christmas approaching, Craig and Kate chose to ignore the symptoms, but Craig’s condition worsened over time. Alongside the headaches, he started making bizarre and forgetful mistakes, like thinking he was locked in a room when the door was behind him. He also faced challenges with navigation, frequently getting lost or needing photographs to remember directions. Despite trying to manage his symptoms with various techniques, Craig eventually confided in his wife, who urged him to seek medical help. Following an eye check-up that revealed blindness in his left eye, Craig was referred for a CT scan. In February 2023, he received the shocking diagnosis of a low-grade meningioma, a type of brain tumour that had likely been growing for 15 years and causing his skull to protrude.
Fortunately, Craig underwent successful surgery to remove the tumour, which lasted over six hours. However, even 18 months post-surgery, he continues to deal with migraines, brain fogs, and occasional collapses. Despite the ongoing challenges, Craig expressed gratitude for his remarkable recovery, especially the restoration of his perfect eyesight. The NHS highlights that brain tumour symptoms can vary based on the affected area, with common signs including weakness, headaches, nausea, seizures, vision or speech problems, and behavioural changes. It advises seeking medical attention for persistent or unusual headaches, as these could indicate a serious underlying issue.
Craig’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies and seeking timely medical advice when experiencing unusual symptoms. It also sheds light on the impact of brain tumours on individuals and their families, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and support for those affected by cancer. By sharing his journey, Craig hopes to encourage others to prioritise their health and not dismiss concerning symptoms, ultimately advocating for early detection and treatment of medical conditions.
As Craig continues his recovery journey, he remains optimistic about the future and is grateful for the support he has received from his loved ones and medical professionals. His resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to many facing similar challenges, underscoring the importance of staying positive and proactive in the face of adversity. Moving forward, Craig aims to continue raising awareness about brain tumours and advocating for better healthcare services for individuals dealing with such conditions. His story exemplifies the power of perseverance and the impact of sharing personal experiences in fostering community support and understanding.