Man diagnosed with incurable brain cancer
A 34-year-old from Wrexham received a glioblastoma diagnosis after experiencing headaches and brain fog.
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A 34-year-old man from Wrexham has been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive and incurable brain tumour. Josh Smith began experiencing headaches and brain fog in January 2026, initially dismissing them as tiredness. His wife, Kelly, insisted he see a doctor on 9 February after a 10-day period of severe headaches and disorientation.
Following a visit to A&E at Wrexham Maelor Hospital on 13 February due to intense pain, a CT scan the next day revealed a 4.5cm tumour. Mr Smith was subsequently referred to The Walton Centre in Liverpool, where he was diagnosed with glioblastoma.
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Surgery was performed to remove 95% of the tumour. Glioblastoma has a difficult prognosis, with an average survival time of 12 to 18 months. According to Brain Tumour Research, only 4% of patients survive for five years or more.
Mr Smith has since undergone radiotherapy and is continuing with chemotherapy at Glan Clwyd Hospital in Rhyl. Despite the terminal diagnosis, he and his wife are focused on making memories and raising awareness for brain tumour research.
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Annually, approximately 3,200 people in the UK are diagnosed with glioblastoma, as reported by Brain Tumour Research. Treatment options for this type of tumour have seen little advancement in two decades.
The Welsh government has stated it is working on a cancer strategy. This strategy aims to concentrate on research, innovation, and improving access to clinical trials for patients. A Cancer Plan for Wales is scheduled for publication in February 2027.
Mr Smith has shared his experience to encourage greater investment in brain tumour research, highlighting that the condition affects individuals across all age groups. He expressed gratitude for the support received from NHS staff and the public.
Questions this report answers
+What treatment is Josh Smith receiving now?
Josh Smith is currently undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy at Glan Clwyd Hospital in Rhyl. These treatments follow surgery that removed 95% of his glioblastoma tumour. The aim is to slow progression and manage symptoms.
+How long does a glioblastoma diagnosis usually mean someone has left?
Glioblastoma has a difficult prognosis, with an average survival time of 12 to 18 months after diagnosis. Only 4% of patients survive for five years or more, according to Brain Tumour Research. This highlights the aggressive nature of the disease.
+What is the Welsh government doing to help brain cancer patients?
The Welsh government is developing a Cancer Plan for Wales, due in February 2027, focusing on research, innovation, and improving access to clinical trials. This strategy aims to address the lack of progress in glioblastoma treatments over the past 20 years.
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