Father of Two, 37, Had Stomach Pain. When He Went to the Hospital, He Got a Shocking Diagnosis That Changed Everything

A 37-year-old father, Lewis Goodfield, has shared his harrowing journey from enduring chronic abdominal pain to receiving a life-changing brain tumour diagnosis that shocked both him and his loved ones. For several years, Goodfield had faced persistent stomach issues, culminating in a third hospital visit in March 2025, which would radically alter his life.

During this visit, Goodfield experienced a severe collapse while in the hospital, leading medical staff to suspect he may have had a seizure. A CT scan conducted during his stay uncovered a mass on his brain. “It was a huge shock, not just for me but for friends and family, too,” Goodfield recalled, highlighting the unexpected nature of the diagnosis.

In April, he received information that he had a Grade 2 glioma, an aggressive type of brain tumour typically found in adults, which appeared unrelated to his ongoing stomach complaints. Grade 2 gliomas are known to potentially progress to more severe forms over time, eliciting concern about his future health.

After several months of deliberation, Goodfield underwent a craniotomy in July to remove the tumour. Remarkably, the surgery was performed while he was awake, enabling him to hear the drilling and the conversations within the surgical team. “It was really strange and just a lot to take in,” he said of the experience. The operation revealed a tumour approximately the size of an egg, which was later confirmed to be non-cancerous, a situation that doctors attributed to the tumour being detected early.

Throughout this challenging time, Goodfield expressed profound gratitude, particularly towards his wife, Keeley, who has been his primary supporter. “Keeley has borne the most of this,” he stated, acknowledging her significant role in his recovery process. “I would never have been able to remain positive or stick with my daily tasks if it wasn’t for Keeley,” he added, noting the added strain of being unable to drive or maintain his regular work routine.

The impact of Goodfield’s diagnosis on his two children, Jake and Ralph, was also discussed. He remarked that the boys were “fairly unaware” of their father’s health challenges for some time. Since the surgery, however, Goodfield has struggled to resume a normal life, continuing to seek answers for his unrelenting abdominal issues.

“I can’t live my life like this,” he expressed, detailing the extensive medical investigations he has undergone, including numerous CT scans, MRIs, and other diagnostic procedures. “I’ve tried different diets and gave up spicy foods and alcohol, but nothing seems to work,” he lamented.

Adjusting to life post-surgery has not been easy for Goodfield. He stated he now faces difficulties with noise, bright lights, and memory loss, underscoring the lingering effects of both the tumour and the surgery. Despite these challenges, Goodfield has taken a proactive approach to raise awareness and funds for brain tumour research, successfully gathering around £5,000 through a fundraising initiative for The Brain Tumour Charity.

Although he has postponed the actual walk segment of the fundraising event due to his current health, he remains optimistic. “I need to be fit enough to do [the walk], but talking about this has been fantastic,” Goodfield stated, noting the overwhelming support he has received from the community. “I thought there would be 10 to 15 people on the walk, but now there are over 60,” he shared, reflecting on the growing number of participants rallying to support the cause.

Goodfield’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges families face when confronted with sudden health crises. Through his adversity, he has garnered both strength and hope, not only for himself but also for others battling similar health issues.