An amateur footballer’s shock brain tumour diagnosis has inspired a Hertfordshire-based garden centre’s long-term support of the charity Brain Tumour Research.
Burston Garden Centre, in St Albans, has chosen Brain Tumour Research as its official charity of the year following the shock brain tumour diagnosis of Shay Emerton, the co-owner’s son.
Shay suffered a seizure whilst playing football in April last year and went into respiratory arrest. Luckily, an anaesthetist playing for the opposition was able to revive him and the 25-year-old, from St Albans, was rushed to hospital where scans detected his tumour.
He underwent surgery in which 98% of his grade 2 glioma was removed, but he suffered supplementary motor area (SMA) syndrome which left him with temporary paralysis down his right-hand side.
Having turned a corner since being paralysed and unable to walk, Shay is now preparing to run the TCS London Marathon in October with his brother Connor, also in aid of the charity.
It is his brain tumour journey that has inspired the garden centre his family co-owns to make a year-long corporate commitment to the charity.
Shay’s mum, Dawn Emerton, said: “Shay’s diagnosis came as a huge shock to us all but he has amazed us with his resilience and determination and continues to get stronger each day.
“His experience has made us determined to do all we can to support Brain Tumour Research in order to help improve treatment options for Shay and the many others like him who are facing an uncertain future.”
Charlie Allsebrook, community development manager for Brain Tumour Research, said: “We know the team has lots of ideas for fundraising and awareness days for the rest of the year and look forward to seeing them come to fruition.”
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