On 20 September 2025, I had the privilege of being part of the Salford Face-to-Face Meeting, hosted by the wonderful Andrea Wadeson and supported by the British Acoustic Neuroma Association (BANA). This gathering was more than just a meeting; it was a celebration of courage, resilience, and community.
Walking into the lecture theatre at Salford Royal Hospital was surreal. Not long ago, I was lying in a hospital bed in this very place, uncertain of what the future held. And yet, here I was — standing tall, holding my book Whispers Through the Fog, and speaking to a room full of fellow warriors. Who could have thought?
Of course, none of my visits would be complete without laughter. I confessed to the group that I couldn’t find my way to the lecture theatre at first — my internal GPS is permanently broken. And before you ask, no, it has nothing to do with acoustic neuroma! Sometimes laughter is the best medicine, and that day we had plenty of it.
Reading from my book, Whispers Through the Fog, at the Salford Face-to-Face Meeting.
The Power of Storytelling
During the session, I had the honour of reading a passage from my book. As I looked around the room, I saw nods of recognition, smiles of encouragement, and eyes that carried stories of their own.
Storytelling, I have learned, is more than sharing words — it’s about building bridges between experiences. When one person speaks, others feel less alone. Successful stories light the way for others, offering hope and inspiration in times of doubt.
Last year I could barely stand. This year, I stood in front of an audience, sharing my journey — proof that healing is possible, growth is real, and no story ever ends where pain begins.
What made it even more special was the audience itself. To stand before people who truly understand — who live with the same hidden challenges, the same frustrations, the same small triumphs was profoundly moving. I didn’t need to explain every detail; they simply knew. That kind of understanding is rare, and it made the experience all the more powerful.
Fruitful Discussions and Shared Wisdom
After the reading, we had open and heartfelt discussions. Together, we explored the challenges of living with acoustic neuroma — single-sided deafness, fatigue, brain fog, and the daily adjustments we make. But what stood out most was not the hardship — it was the solutions, the resilience, and the hope.
We shared tips, strategies, and victories, no matter how small. We reminded each other that even on the hardest days, progress is possible. The energy in the room was uplifting, and the sense of community was unshakable.
Of course, our discussions also went deep into the technical side of things and this is where Andrea shone. With her expertise, she patiently answered all the medical and technical questions, giving the group clarity and reassurance that only a true specialist can provide
Whispers Through the Fog in so many hands. Thank you all for the support and inspiring conversations.
A Tribute to Andrea and BANA
This event would not have been possible without Andrea and BANA. Their commitment to connecting people, creating safe spaces, and fostering support is nothing short of inspiring. They are more than organisers — they are builders of community and champions of hope.
Walking Away Stronger
As I left the hospital that day, I carried with me not just memories of a wonderful meeting, but a renewed sense of strength. To stand tall in a place where I once lay in bed was a powerful reminder that resilience is real and community makes us stronger.
Together, we are not just patients.
We are storytellers.
We are advocates.
We are survivors.
And above all, we are never alone.
For those who couldn’t attend, my book Whispers Through the Fog offers a deeper look into my journey with acoustic neuroma — from diagnosis to adaptation and beyond. May it bring you the same comfort and hope that storytelling has brought me.
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