Ben Finds Strength and Self-Advocacy Amidst Grade 3 Brain Cancer (Oligodendroglioma)

When Ben moved to Manchester, he carried with him more than just his belongings — he brought a grade 3 brain cancer story of resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering advocacy, too. Diagnosed at just 24 with brain cancer (oligodendroglioma), Ben’s journey through unexpected seizures, misdiagnoses, and transformative treatments reshaped his identity and view on life.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Ben’s first seizure happened on his 18th birthday. The seizure was initially dismissed as an isolated incident linked to low phosphate levels. It wasn’t until more distressing episodes years later, during some of which he lost the ability to speak, and frustrating misdiagnoses of anxiety, that he discovered the real cause: a brain tumor, specifically an oligodendroglioma. This revelation came after persistent advocacy for his health, driven by his gut feeling that something was seriously wrong.

Ben’s grade 3 brain cancer experience highlights the importance of listening to your body and pushing for answers. He faced medical professionals who brushed off his symptoms, only to later uncover the truth through sheer determination. His diagnosis led to a whirlwind of treatments: brain surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. The physical challenges were immense, but Ben’s mental health battles were equally profound. He grappled with identity shifts, social anxiety, and the overwhelming task of finding a “new normal.”

What’s remarkable about Ben isn’t just his grade 3 brain cancer experience but also how he’s leveraging what he went through to advocate for others in the cancer community. He emphasizes the value of a strong support system — friends, family, therapists — and the need for mental health care alongside physical treatment. Ben’s candid reflections on his fears, frustrations, and triumphs offer a raw, authentic look at life with a brain tumor.

Now, Ben’s focused on self-acceptance and living authentically. His scar, once hidden under a cap, has become a symbol of his story, resilience, and growth. He’s learning to embrace life beyond grade 3 brain cancer, advocating for mental health awareness, and encouraging others to be their own strongest advocates.

Watch the video and learn more from Ben about:

What he wishes every young person knew about mental health and advocating for their health.
How his story progressed from misdiagnosed anxiety to a life-changing brain tumor diagnosis.
How he turned fear into strength and became his own biggest supporter after all his treatments.
The story of resilience and hope the scar he once hid now proudly tells.