Committee Member

My name is Yvonne Monaghan, and I live in Ballymoney. My daughter Lauren was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour when she was 12 years old. She had 2 craniotomies to de-bulk her tumour and unfortunately after her second surgery, she developed life-threatening complications and needed further treatment. I had to give up my career in nursing as Lauren required proton therapy in America and underwent clinical trials at St Jude Children’s Cancer Research Hospital, Memphis. Lauren is now 23. She has multiple medical conditions & takes daily medication. Her tumour is now stable. She has good days and bad days, and I’m inspired by her courage, strength & determination. Despite missing so much school, she is now in her final year of university.

I have been a member of Brainwaves for several years, and it has given us the opportunity to meet, support and make friends with other families living with a brain tumour diagnosis.

I became a committee member as Brainwaves is the only charity dedicated to brain tumours in Northern Ireland, and they are funding amazing research. As a parent, I completely understand the stress and sleepless nights that comes with a brain tumour diagnosis, and I would like to assist in any way I can.