TV’s longest-running medical drama’s four million viewers watched as Glen (Owain Arthur) told Robyn (Amanda Henderson) that it’s not fair on her to continue their relationship because he has a glioblastoma and not much time to live.
But she insists she’s not going anywhere and wants to make the most of their time together.
We were approached by the Casualty team to work with them on the powerful storyline and it is a huge opportunity to help raise awareness about brain tumours – the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40 in the UK.
Many of you applauded the storyline on primetime TV, but some of you said it would be too difficult to watch. We have had many touching responses to our real life stories that mirror Glen and Robyn’s powerful story.
When Sara shared how her husband Neal told her she could leave him when he was diagnosed with a glioblastoma just six weeks after they got together, Allan got in touch to say:
“Sara, I found your story so touching. I lost my wife Maria in February after she was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in November 2015. After 49 years together, it is difficult to come to terms with the loss.”
After Nathan and Hailey told how they keep positive for each other after his glioblastoma diagnosis, Toni contacted us and said;
“This horrible disease broke my heart when we were told my dad had a glioblastoma. We really need more money to find a cure.“
Another supporter emphasised the crucial importance of hope after reading ex-Casualty actress Holly Matthews’ story about her family living with husband Ross’ grade 4 brain tumour and how they focus on the positive. Carol said:
“If kind words and good wishes can put those we love on the way to recovery that is what we have to hold on to in a devastating time. Here is to never giving up.”
Sarah Lindsell, our chief executive, said “More than 10,600 people a year are diagnosed with a brain tumour. Like Glen, it has a devastating impact on them and their loved ones.
Working with Casualty will help highlight our mission to defeat brain tumours – and stop more people going through the heartache of this cruel disease.“
Oliver Kent, Casualty’s executive producer, said; “We’ve been working closely with The Brain Tumour Charity and we are hugely grateful for all their help and expert advice on Glen and Robyn’s big storyline. It has allowed Casualty to accurately portray the disease to our audience.“