Robert’s story

Patient stories

Robert’s story: finding hope again on the waves

From childhood, Robert’s passion was surfing. As a competitive rower too, he had always been fit, active and happiest when he was outdoors and on the water.

Then, in March 2025, everything changed. After experiencing symptoms that were first thought to be vertigo, an investigative scan showed that Robert had a large haemangioblastoma brain tumour. Surgery was his only option.

Although the operation and initial recovery went well, complications afterwards meant Robert faced further surgery, severely impaired mobility and a long period of recovery. He was unable to work, unable to drive and unable to do many of the things that had always made him feel like himself.

His house felt like a prison. His world had closed in.

During that frightening and uncertain time, Robert found support from Brain Tumour Support invaluable. Being able to talk openly and honestly about what he was going through helped him cope not only with the physical impact of his diagnosis and treatment, but also with the emotional and psychological side of recovery.

One of the things Robert longed for most was to stand on a surfboard again. There were many times when he thought it might never happen, but he refused to give up.

Without his driving licence, getting to the coast was not possible, so Robert used his disabled bus pass to travel to The Wave, an inland surfing facility. Wearing a surf helmet to protect the hardware now installed in his head, he got back on his board.

And he caught wave after wave.

“I don’t mind telling you I burst into tears after my first wave. It was a huge relief because I had been really worried that a massive part of my world was over.”

That moment on the water was about much more than surfing. It was about feeling joy again. It was about reclaiming part of himself after months of fear, uncertainty and recovery.

Robert knows how frightening life after a brain tumour diagnosis can be, and he also knows that life may not return to exactly how it was before. But he hopes his story can help others believe there are still things to look forward to.

“I know what a frightening journey this can be, and life may not be the same, but you have to believe in yourself. I hope my story can help even one person to believe a little sooner that there are things to look forward to.”

If you or someone you love has been affected by a brain tumour diagnosis, Brain Tumour Support is here for you at any stage. Our support is free, confidential and available for anyone affected by any type or grade of brain tumour.