Brain tumour survivor to climb mountain with son

L-R Sara Crosland, a brain tumour survivor, with her son, Daniel, who will climb Mount Toubkal

A woman who has survived a brain tumour but still struggles to walk is attempting to climb one of North Africa's highest peaks with her son.

Sara Crosland, from Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in February 2018.

The tumour was removed but she still struggles with balance and has hearing loss and fatigue after the treatment.

Her son, Daniel has described his mother's efforts as "inspiring" as they both prepare to take a group of brain tumour survivors up Mount Toubkal in the Atlas Mountains on 21 June.

The team of six brain tumour survivors will begin their challenge to summit Jebel Toubkal on 21 June

Ms Crosland set up The Beyond Recovery Project last year to raise awareness of the long term impact of living with a brain tumour diagnosis.

The non-profit Community Interest Company aims to support the physical and mental health and wellbeing of brain tumour survivors through outdoor and nature-based activities and therapies.

Being a brain tumour survivor herself, Ms Crosland said she recognised the gaps in support once treatments are finished.

“Treatment is finished, follow up appointments and contact with medical professionals become few and far between, yet the life-changing effects of a brain tumour diagnosis are often still there," she said.

"Years later, navigating a new normal can still be a real challenge and not without its problems."

Ms Crosland, who was left unable to walk, with problems swallowing, double vision, balance issues, invasive tinnitus and permanent hearing loss, said people "frequently misunderstand just how much of a challenge survivorship can be".

'Inspires me everyday'

Ms Crosland hopes to motivate others by leading a group of six up one of North Africa's highest peaks.

Daniel Crosland, who will be supporting the team, said: “Having seen what my mum went through with her own diagnosis and the impact it had on the family as a whole, being part of this challenge is important to me.

"I want to help others see that despite facing massive challenges in life, with the right mindset and support, we can still go on to achieve amazing things.

"Whilst my mum ‘appears’ normal, she has not been left unscathed by the ordeal.

"She inspires me everyday to set high standards for myself, and what I can achieve.”

The team will be fundraising for The Beyond Recovery Project, and The British Acoustic Neuroma Association - which supports individuals with an Acoustic Neuroma/Vestibular Schwannoma brain tumour.

“Recovery certainly doesn’t come with a handbook," Ms Crosland added.

"Navigating this journey can be incredibly difficult."