Ben Cornforth, a 21-year-old university student from Birmingham, believed he was suffering from an exceptionally bad hangover when he suddenly lost the ability to speak. While at his university accommodation in Nottingham, Ben felt dizzy and disoriented. As he headed to the bathroom, the room spun, and he collapsed. Realizing something was seriously wrong, Ben struggled to communicate with his girlfriend, explaining, “I don’t want to alarm you, but I can’t talk.” His speech was slow and confused, mixing up words.
Initially attributing the symptoms to his recent drinking, Ben tried to hide his condition. However, his friends quickly noticed the severity of his symptoms and feared he might be having a stroke. They called medical emergency services, and Ben was rushed to hospital.
A CT scan revealed an unexpected finding: something abnormal in Ben’s brain. Initially suspected to be a cyst, further MRI scans confirmed a benign tumour located in the brain’s language center, explaining the speech difficulties he experienced during a seizure. Doctors believed the tumour had been present most of his life. Though relieved that it was benign, Ben’s journey was far from over.
Shortly after starting medication to control seizures and returning to university, Ben suffered two more seizures. A follow-up scan revealed increased activity within the tumour, necessitating brain surgery. In May 2023, Ben underwent a six-hour craniotomy—a procedure where a part of the skull is temporarily removed to access the brain. Notably, Ben was awake during part of the operation so doctors could monitor his speech and ensure they did not impair critical brain function.
The surgery involved removing as much of the tumour as possible without damaging the surrounding brain tissue. Ben faced postoperative challenges, including difficulty reading, following conversations, and watching TV. Doctors assured him these side effects were temporary.
Two weeks later, biopsy results delivered devastating news: Ben had stage 4 brain cancer. He required six weeks of intensive radiotherapy and chemotherapy, followed by a year of daily chemotherapy tablets. Relocating to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham allowed Ben to be closer to his family during treatment.
Throughout his ordeal, Ben maintained a determined mindset, striving to keep life as normal as possible. Now off active treatment and feeling well, he focuses on making the most of each day.
Ben has since become a member of the Teenage Cancer Trust’s Youth Advisory Group, helping shape support for young people facing similar diagnoses. Demonstrating incredible resilience, he completed the London Marathon, raising over £10,000 for the charity that supported him during his treatment.
Reflecting on his journey, Ben shared, “After my diagnosis, I never thought I could run a marathon. Crossing that finish line with my family and friends was a celebration of everything I’ve been through. Fundraising through Teenage Cancer Trust made it even more meaningful, knowing the money will directly support others like me.”
Ben’s courage and determination continue to inspire those around him as he navigates life beyond cancer treatment.