THE family of a former Thornbury firefighter who was diagnosed with a brain tumour have paid tribute after being supported by a charity in the town.
Andy Downes had served at Thornbury Fire Station for 14 years without a day’s sick leave before he was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2020.
The tumour was found after he failed a hearing test as part of a routine medical check.
Andy - who was diagnosed with grade four glioblastoma - underwent emergency brain surgery during the first week of the Covid lockdown.
This was followed by intensive chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy.
Andy’s tumour is now stable and is due to take part in the Great Bristol Run on Sunday, May 19 with his children Izzy, Sam, Louis and Georgia.
Andy’s daughter Izzy has now spoken about the support the family received from Brain Tumour Support, whose offices are based in the town centre.
Izzy, who works at Southmead Hospital, said: “It was a terrifying time for our whole family, made even worse as no visitors were allowed in the hospital.
“He went from running his successful business as a builder and serving the community as a firefighter, to being unable to drive due to his condition, losing independence and struggling with everyday activities.
“Ultimately, in November 2022, he was forced to take medical retirement from his role with the fire service.
“I try to forget what my dad used to be like, as I know that version of him will never come back.”
She added: “Being Thornbury locals, our family had grown up knowing about Brain Tumour Support, but we never imagined we’d ever need the charity’s services ourselves.
“However, all the support we have received has made such a difference.
“We have been able to benefit from free counselling sessions, as well as some of the support groups.
“My dad has attended the men’s support group online and I have been to the face-to-face support group at Southmead Hospital.
“It was comforting to meet other people in my situation, knowing they’re all going through a similar thing with someone they love.
“Especially beneficial was working with the charity’s dedicated welfare benefits support professional – particularly with my dad being self-employed, and falling ill during the pandemic.
“The financial advice we had through that made a huge difference to the family during a really difficult time.
“It has been such a comfort to know the team are there – they’ve always been in touch, whenever we need them.”
Georgia and Louis will be running the Bristol Half marathon, while Izzy, Sam and Andy are running the Bristol 10k.
So far, the family has raised more than £2,400 for Brain Tumour Support.
You can donate to their GoFundMe page here - tinyurl.com/yt9y6237
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here