A man who credits his boss with saving his life is raising vital awareness to help find a cure for brain tumours.
Trainee teacher Matt Schlag was diagnosed with an anaplastic astrocytoma in October 2019. His diagnosis came after his boss urged him to get checked out following his strange behaviour at work, including forgetting his words, poor timekeeping and getting lost around school.
“My boss was instrumental in helping me deal with the situation and getting me sorted out as I wasn’t capable at the time. His intervention saved my life,” said Matt.
Matt (pictured with his wife Louise and children, Anja and Reuben) underwent surgery in October 2019 – the day of his daughter’s second birthday – followed by three months of radiotherapy and 12 months of chemotherapy. In August 2020, a scan showed his tumour had grown again.
He underwent a second surgery in September, followed by a further six months of chemo.
Now, Matt is preparing to take part in the London to Brighton Cycle Ride on Sunday 11th September alongside his friend Chris Lumb and Chris Keithley. Ahead of the 54-mile challenge, he has also shared his story in The Sun and Mirror to help raise awareness of the disease.
Matt added: “I just wanted to make something positive out of what’s happened. It’s so important to raise money to help find a cure because, until a cure is found, there’s always the worry that the tumour can come back again.”
To support Matt’s fundraising, please click here.