When doctors told Twickenham father-to-be Charles Sealey heard he had a mass on his brain, his world stopped.
The 35-year-old director at Warman O’Brien, a life sciences recruitment consultancy, was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour called subependymoma after suddenly developing neurological symptoms, migraines, and reduced mobility.
The news came just after his wedding to partner Annabel in July 2025, and as the couple prepared to welcome their first child.
Mr Sealey said: "When I was told there was a mass on my brain, my world stopped.
"I’d just got married, we were expecting our first baby, and suddenly all I could think about was whether I’d be there to see my son grow up.
"The fear wasn’t just about me, it was about what my diagnosis would mean for my family and the future we were so excited to start together."
He underwent six hours of surgery at St George’s Hospital, followed by a difficult recovery that included hydrocephalus, repeated hospital stays, and the insertion of a shunt to relieve pressure on his brain.
He has since returned to work and is now looking forward to the arrival of his baby boy.
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Touched by his experience, colleagues at Warman O’Brien aim to raise £6,000 for Brain Tumour Research through fundraising activities over the course of the year.
The charity funds critical research and raises awareness about brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer.
Mark O’Brien, founder and chief executive of Warman O’Brien, said: "This partnership is deeply personal for all of us. Charles is not just a colleague, he’s a friend, a leader within our business and someone who embodies resilience.
"Seeing first-hand what he and his family have been through has opened our eyes to the devastating impact of brain tumours and the urgent need for more research."
The company will support Brain Tumour Research through fundraising activities, awareness campaigns, and advocacy.
Mr Sealey said: "I’m incredibly proud and grateful that Warman O’Brien has taken on this challenge in my honour. To see the company I work for turn such a difficult chapter of my life into something positive means more to me than I can put into words."
Brain Tumour Research funds research at dedicated UK centres and campaigns for increased investment in brain tumour research.
Dan Knowles, chief executive of Brain Tumour Research, said: "Partnerships like this are absolutely vital if we are to accelerate progress towards better treatments and a cure."
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