Alex

Alex is training to be a lifeguard

In 2007, Alex and his family moved to Adelaide from Ireland, keen to start a new life in sunny Australia. But soon after arriving, Alex started having petit mal seizures. He underwent standard testing for epilepsy but the EEG results came back negative. His doctors were already suspecting a brain tumour, which was confirmed by an MRI.

At six years of age, Alex was diagnosed with a grade 2 astrocytoma tumour. From the onset of seizures to the correct diagnosis took only three weeks — speed which helped save his life and ensured he had a swift and full recovery. Alex had two neurosurgical procedures to remove the entire tumour and to implant four titanium plates.

Now tumour-free, Alex is enjoying a normal life with his brother and sister. An avid book worm, he can once again enjoy Harry Potter, and aspires to join the army when he finishes school.