By Fiona Missen

Introduction

Kia ora, I’m Fiona Missen and I live in the beautiful town of Katikati. I was diagnosed with a glioblastoma – methylated, wild type – in January 2023.

I completed my treatment in September 2023, and since then I’ve been stable – and truly living my best life. Every day is a gift, and I’m making the most of every moment.

Diagnosis & treatment

My journey began unexpectedly when I was hospitalised with tremors and a sudden loss of balance. A CT scan revealed a large mass in my brain. It was a frightening time, and everything went downhill quickly from that point.

Tauranga Hospital could only provide me with constant supervision if I was in a shared room with three others. But I wasn’t coping with the light or noise, so my sisters and partner chose to take turns providing round-the-clock care for me. I could no longer walk without help. I know that I had extended family and friends visiting regularly, but I have no memory of it. For a week, my family repeatedly told medical staff they were concerned about my rapid deterioration. I was becoming more unbalanced and confused, had developed nausea, vomiting, and persistent headaches that weren’t relieved by medication.

My family asked for my surgery to be brought forward, but doctors believed symptoms could be managed by increasing my steroid medication. On the morning of January 29, after what was described as a “great night’s sleep,” I couldn’t be woken. At some point during the night, I had lost consciousness. My partner called a nurse, and when the red emergency button was pressed, doctors came running. I was in a coma with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 6. I was intubated and sent to ICU.

Getting me to Waikato Hospital for emergency surgery was difficult due to heavy rain, flooding, and road closures. By early evening, I was finally flown by air ambulance to Waikato for emergency surgery in the middle of the night. My sisters and partner made the 90-minute drive through terrible weather and spent a sleepless, anxious night waiting for news.

I underwent a debulking surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible, followed by a course of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. While the treatment went well overall, I did experience significant nausea and vomiting from the chemotherapy. What finally helped me manage that side effect was a combination of CBD and THC, which made a world of difference.

Throughout it all, I was surrounded by love. My family and friends were incredible – always there, always lifting me up. I have truly never felt so supported and loved in my life.

Living with a Brain Tumour

While the diagnosis itself was difficult, the experience has had a surprisingly positive impact on my life. It brought my relationships into sharper focus, deepened the connections I have with those around me, and brought out the very best in all of us.

I now live every day with deep gratitude. I’ve stopped taking anything for granted. Life feels richer, more meaningful, and full of purpose.

Support from Brain Tumour Support NZ

Connecting with others who understand this journey is powerful. Being part of the Brain Tumour Support NZ community reminds me that I’m not alone – and that there’s hope, resilience, and strength to be found, even in the hardest moments.

Final Thoughts: Living in Gratitude

This diagnosis, while devastating, has also brought a profound sense of positivity into my life. I’ve learned to slow down, to appreciate the little things, and to hold onto joy where I can find it.

I don’t take anything for granted anymore – and I now live every day with extreme gratitude.