My story began with what I thought were panic attacks and a visit to my doctor seeking a referral for help. My doctor referred me to a psychiatrist and a neurologist, and within months, an MRI confirmed the 'panic attacks' were focal aware seizures caused by a 7 cm x 4 cm x 4 cm brain tumour. 
 
Within two weeks of the MRI, I had a 12-hour surgery to remove as much of the tumour as safely possible. After surgical samples were fully evaluated, I learned I had an Oligodendroglioma, a low grade, 'slow growing' type of brain cancer. 
 
I had changes in memory, mobility, and more, but was grateful to learn that after decades without new treatment options for those living with brain cancer, there was newfound hope in a medication specifically targeting the mutation central to my condition, which had been submitted for Health Canada's review. 
 
That hope began with investment in research more than 15 years ago. This is just one of the reasons why I volunteer with Brain Cancer Canada - to accelerate research and advocate for transformation in the care of ALL types of brain cancers. 
 
Today, brain cancer treatments are based on therapies that are decades old. Investing in research is vital for us to unlock the benefits of modern therapies developed for other cancers and to provide brain cancer patients with new options that will enhance both their quality of life and survival rates. 
 
By participating in both the Scientific and Community Engagement activities with Brain Cancer Canada, I am buoyed by the care and generosity of all who help us build a better future. 
 
I am confident that donations will continue to fuel the next breakthrough and offer hope to the nine people in Canada each day who receive the devastating news from their doctors that they have brain cancer. 
 
Stuart Selby 
@stupertinto