Heartbreak as mum dies of brain tumour mistaken for a sinus infection
Brain tumour: Cancer Research UK on 'different types' in 2017
A mum who was given beta-blockers to stop migraines has now died from an aggressive brain tumour.
Jennifer Roscoe, 38, was initially given beta blockers to alleviate what was thought to be migraines caused by a sinus infection. However, Jennifer was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumour, after experiencing regular bouts of vomiting and migraines.
Her GP initially believed she had a recurring sinus infection and prescribed beta blockers to manage her symptoms. Unfortunately, the medication had no effect. On June 2, 2019, Jennifer’s left-hand side went numb, accompanied by bouts of vomiting and blurred vision. Concerned for her well-being, she was rushed to A&E at Whiston Hospital in Prescot, Merseyside. An MRI scan revealed the presence of a brain tumour, which surgeons removed.
Jennifer underwent six months of concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy but died at her home in St Helens, Merseyside, on July 23. Her husband David, 44, paid tribute to his “inspirational” wife and mother to their two children, Emmy, 10, and Aria, seven.
He said: “Thinking of others was Jen in a nutshell; she was very passionate about wanting to help people and raise awareness of brain tumours. She wanted to share everything about her journey, warts and all, it was so important to her.
“Jen has changed so many people’s lives while she’s been on this journey and changed their outlook on life, I’m super proud of her. She was such an inspirational mum to Emmy and Aria; she will be greatly missed but also greatly remembered.”
Following her treatment, Jennifer and David were fortunate enough to enjoy a couple of years together, ticking off items from Jennifer’s bucket list. They took memorable trips to Florida and Lapland, creating cherished memories.
However, in January of this year, a routine MRI scan revealed the presence of two new brain tumours. Chemotherapy was administered to combat them, but it left Jennifer feeling unwell.
David said: “She was put on a different type of chemotherapy, but she was quite poorly. She suffered from confusion which escalated into dementia-type symptoms.
“The community team, which was made up of staff from Willowbrook Hospice, Macmillan, and the NHS were absolutely amazing and guided me on how to treat Jen at home.
“They put a really solid home care package in place; it removed a lot of anxiety from both of us and made us feel comfortable which was vital.”
Jennifer had previously voiced her frustration regarding the lack of funding and research dedicated to brain tumours. Even while battling the disease, she undertook the 100 Squats or Star Jumps a Day challenge to raise funds for vital research towards finding a cure.
David said: “I’ve signed the petition and encourage others to do the same. Jen and I really struggled to comprehend the lack of Government funding for brain tumours.
“They are indiscriminate and affect people of any age, we shouldn’t have to ask for funding, it should already be there, it’s shocking.”
Brain Tumour Research community development manager Matthew Price said his thoughts were with “all those who knew and loved” Jennifer.
He said: “We’re deeply saddened to learn that Jennifer has died from this devastating disease.
“She was part of the Brain Tumour Research family, and our thoughts are with all those who knew and loved her.
“We are so grateful to David for supporting our petition and helping to raise awareness.
“If everyone can spare just a few minutes to sign and share, we will soon hit the 100,000 signatures we need and help find a cure, bringing hope to families whose loved ones have been affected by brain tumours.”
To sign and share the petition, visit braintumourresearch.org/petition
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