When I discovered I had a brain tumour in June 2024 The Walton Centre were immediately involved. When I first met Dr Lawson just 6 days later he immediately made me feel at ease. I had a large frontal lobe tumour which he was going to operate on and he filled me with confidence from the moment I met him. The nurse team who met us that day too were absolutely lovely. Weirdly I felt at home their already. I returned 6 days later and had a successful surgery. The team on my ward, the nurse staff and doctors all add to the aura of calm in what can be such a turbulent environment.

I returned again in July for further treatment due to an infection and I had 3 seizures resulting in emergency surgery to remove part of my skull. I was in The Walton for a month where I don't remember much of my time there but I know I was treated impeccably but what struck me more was the care my husband received from all the staff. Nothing was too much trouble and he got to know so many people during this time who were always so kind and caring.

I returned again for my skull replacement surgery in Feb 25 and I felt like I was going home. The nurses are more like friends. What they have to do day in and day out is mind-blowing. They treat everyone with the up most care, consideration and respect.

I am 1 year post cranioplasty and it's my turn to repay something for everything I have received. I am planning to run the Ibiza Half Marathon in April 2026. Mine and Liam's second home had to be the destination for my fundraising mission and the Ibiza Half is a challenge big enough for me to put me out of my comfort zone. If you can help me by donating even just a small amount you will be helping to keep this amazing institute going to help many others the way I was helped every time I needed it. Thank you

Nicola Bennett