Indi Powell, an 18-year-old, has been bravely enduring a series of intense medical procedures and treatments since being diagnosed with an aggressive type of rapidly growing brain cancer four years ago. Her aim is to raise awareness about the insufficient funding and treatment options available in the UK for families dealing with this devastating diagnosis.
The journey began when Indi, at the age of 14, started suffering from severe headaches while living in the United States. Initially dismissed as stress-related or trivial, her symptoms took a serious turn in 2021 when a pediatrician ordered an MRI scan, revealing a large tumor on the right side of her brain.
Following the diagnosis of a grade four glioblastoma, Indi underwent a lengthy 10-hour surgery in North Carolina. Despite hailing from Windsor, Berkshire, she expressed disbelief at facing such a life-altering condition. The surgery left her temporarily incapacitated, struggling with speech and motor skills, and relearning basic functions due to the impact on her brain.
A rigorous treatment regimen ensued, including 32 sessions of radiotherapy, extensive chemotherapy, participation in clinical trials, and a second major brain surgery. Notably, she was part of a groundbreaking clinical trial in Washington DC involving T-cell therapy, where her body’s immune response played a crucial role in her survival.
While grappling with the challenges of treatment, Indi remained determined, focusing on overcoming each day. Despite missing out on typical teenage experiences, she has returned to the UK, determined to complete her education and pursue a career in child psychology after enduring regular transatlantic trips for medical monitoring.
Notably, Indi highlights the disparity in research funding for brain tumors in the UK, emphasizing the need for increased investment, innovation, and access to clinical trials within the country. Brain tumors, particularly affecting individuals under 40, receive minimal research funding despite their high fatality rates and complexity due to the numerous tumor variations.
Collaborating with Brain Tumour Research, a prominent charity dedicated to advancing sustainable brain tumor research in the UK, Indi aims to advocate for improved treatments, early detection, and ultimately, a cure for this challenging disease. The charity’s commitment reflects the shared goal of providing better outcomes and support for individuals facing similar battles, emphasizing the importance of local research and treatment advancements in combating brain tumors.