Jack Bowden
Our Member of the Month this month is Jack Bowden.
Jack was diagnosed with a brain tumour in February 2011 at the tender age of 18 months. Being a twin, the disparity between him and his sister became apparent; Jack frequently stumbled and held his head to one side, and then began constantly vomiting. Rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) via blue light, he underwent a gruelling 10-hour operation to extract the tumour, followed by a year-long bout of chemotherapy. Despite the treatment, Jack was left with deafness in one ear, diminished hearing in the other, and paralysis on his right side.
After diligent physiotherapy to strengthen his weakened side, Jack suffered a relapse in April 2018 at the age of 9. This led to another surgery and subsequent proton therapy in Jacksonville, America, over three months. Another setback occurred in January 2021, at the age of 11, prompting a watchful waiting approach. Unfortunately, Jack relapsed again in January 2022 (at age 12), necessitating further rounds of chemotherapy.
The treatment took a toll, prompting a decision in May 2022 to implant an Ommaya reservoir, facilitating direct injection of chemotherapy into his brain. However, this procedure led to memory difficulties. By November 2022, medical professionals delivered the devastating news that the treatments were ineffective, leaving Jack with less than a year to live.
March 2023 arrived, and at the age of 13, Jack was offered a fourth surgery in a bid to extend his life. The tumours had spread to his brain stem, rendering the operation extremely dangerous. Despite the risks, Jack underwent the surgery, which resulted in severe balance issues and paralysis on one side of his face.
Tragically, in March of the 2024, Jack lost his battle with the disease at the age of 14.
“Over the years Jack accumulated an impressive number of beads from Beads of Courage. He took great pride in these beads and would proudly tell whoever would listen all about them.
We would like to thank Beads of courage for all their support over the years.“
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