On a recent episode of Disability Matters with Patrick O’Donnell, the focus turned to a deeply personal topic — brain tumours.
John was joined by Caroline Kane Montague, patient representative on the board of Brain Tumour Ireland, who spoke about the charity’s work and this year’s National Brain Tumour Awareness Week, which took place in October.
“This year’s Awareness Week focused on paediatric brain tumours,” Caroline said. “We held a series of events to support families, raise awareness, and help people understand what life looks like during and after diagnosis.”
Helping Families Cope and Connect
Throughout the week, Brain Tumour Ireland hosted a range of online and in-person events, including a webinar with Dr. Joanna Fortune, clinical psychotherapist, and Dr. Avril Carey, Principal of Beaumont Hospital School.
They explored how families can talk to children about illness and how to support a smooth return to school after treatment.
“It’s a very difficult time — not just for the child but for the whole family,” Caroline explained. “Knowing how to talk about what’s happening and where to turn for help makes a real difference.”
Recognising the Early Signs
Brain Tumour Ireland also launched a new booklet, created with Children’s Health Ireland, to help parents recognise the signs and symptoms of brain tumours in babies and young children. The resource is available at www.braintumourireland.com.
Caroline shared her own story of being diagnosed as a child:
“My mother noticed small things — I was bumping into things and falling a lot. The last thing on her mind was that it could be a brain tumour, but her instincts were right. Every case is different — it’s not always about headaches.”
Ongoing Support and Hope
Beyond Awareness Week, Brain Tumour Ireland continues to provide vital support through monthly online and in-person support groups for patients and families, and a bereavement group for those who have lost loved ones.
“Every year in Ireland, around 65 children and young people are diagnosed with a brain or central nervous system tumour,” Caroline noted. “Not all brain tumours are cancerous, but every diagnosis changes a life. I was diagnosed at 10 — now I’m 51 and living a full life. There is hope, and there is support.”
Disability Matters airs every Thursday at 4PM on 92.5 Phoenix FM, with repeats Monday 3AM and Tuesday 3AM & 7AM.
Produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL), the show highlights the voices, experiences, and advocacy of Ireland’s disability community.