Life After a Rare Brain Tumour and Supplementary Motor Area Syndrome: Awake Behind Closed Eyes

This book offers a personal insight into the experience of Alex Jelly, a professional fundraiser who developed a rare brain tumour, a papillary meningioma, which was successfully removed. She was left with Supplementary Motor Area Syndrome and associated problems including motor and speech impairments and a temporary psychosis. Discussing Alex’s struggles and triumphs throughout her rehabilitation, this book offers an honest account of her journey from diagnosis to recovery.

Part I introduces Alex’s early life and employment, symptom onset and diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. Part II presents her neurosurgeon, Adel Helmy, and a clinical neuropsychologist, Barbara A. Wilson. Adel provides a medical context by explaining Alex’s successful surgery and her post-operative experience. Finally, Barbara concludes with a comprehensive view of Alex’s recovery and gives a voice to the therapists and psychologists who worked with Alex throughout her in and outpatient rehabilitation journey.

This book provides support, understanding and hope for patients who have suffered a brain tumour, and their families. It is valuable reading for any professional involved in neurorehabilitation, studemts of clinical neuropsychology and those touched by brain injury.