My wonder horse sensed I had brain tumour before I was diagnosed by docs
Kelly Ann says beloved Aliyana is the perfect tonic
Kelly Ann is working with the charity Brain Tumour Research to raise awareness ahead of Brain Tumour Awareness Month in March, which culminates in Wear A Hat Day on Friday, March 27.
Kelly Ann said: “My bond with Aliyana made me focused on recovering as quickly as possible.
“Doctors told me I wouldn’t be able to ride for a year, but I was actually back in the saddle after just seven months. I trusted Aliyana would look after me and although I felt a bit apprehensive at first, I have found she always seems to know when I am tired and works extra hard for me. She even knows when I am having a good day.
“It was a shock to discover that the tumour had come back. I underwent radiotherapy and then chemo, but the best therapy for me is being with Aliyana, even though I have to rely on friends to get me to the stables as I am not allowed to drive.
“The uncertainty of my future makes it very difficult for my mental health. I am having to take things very slowly. Added to that, because I am not allowed to drive, I have to rely on friends giving me lifts, including to the stables.
“I am still trying to compete in dressage competitions but find it very difficult as I get brain fog and can’t always remember my tests.
“To me that doesn’t matter as the important thing is that I have made an effort to attend. I don’t care if I win a rosette or not because in my eyes I am a winner – I’m winning at life after being told I may not walk or talk again.
“I have good days and bad days but when I am with my horse, I forget all about my health. Aliyana is my best therapy. I’m determined to make the most of whatever the future holds for me and, with Kevin and my beloved horse, I know I can put on a brave face and make the best of every day.”
Joe Woo l l c o t t, community fundraising manager at Brain Tumour Research for Scotland and Northern Ireland, said: “We are very grateful to Kelly Ann for helping to raise awareness.
“Kelly Ann’s story reminds us that brain tumours are indiscriminate; they can affect anyone at any age. “
Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40 and yet historically just one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to brain tumours.
She’s even worked out that if she wants a treat she needs to be near my left pocket