STAR readers have sent their condolences and best wishes to the family of a brave brain tumour fighter after she died earlier this month.
When Karen Rigby, from Carr Mill, was diagnosed with a stage four brain tumour and told NHS treatment was not enough to help her, she didn’t give up hope.
After being unwell in 2015, she was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour which was removed with no further treatment needed.
However, in December 2020 she had another operation after learning another brain tumour was found. In January 2021 this one was discovered to be a Stage four glioblastoma unmethylated.
Glioblastomas are grade 4 brain tumours. They’re fast-growing, diffuse – meaning they have threadlike tendrils that extend into other parts of the brain, are likely to spread within the brain and may come back even if intensively treated.
The mum-of-two, who worked at Fairfield Hospital, underwent all available rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but the unmethylated part of her diagnosis means her type of tumour was unlikely to react well to those kinds of treatments.
Karen, 60, underwent alternative treatments not available on the NHS and was involved in several fundraising activities for the treatment.
She did all of this with a smile and cheerfulness despite the ordeal she went through but died on November 6 at home surrounded by her children and beloved husband Kevin.
Kind Star readers have sent messages of condolence to the family.
Lauren Reynolds said: “RIP to a lovely lady. Karen was the first person to make me smile in work after I had an operation. My thoughts are with Karen’s family at this sad time”
Maria Harrison added: “Such a beautiful woman who always lit up the room with her beautiful smile . You will always be remembered by the Fairfield family . RIP Karen sleep tight beautiful lady .Thinking of the family”
David Taylor said: “So sad to hear this news of a truly lovely lady I had the privilege of spending happy times with Karen. My thoughts are with Kevin and the family Love David & Maria “Rest in peace your candle will remain bright forever. An inspiration to others”
Viv Lynch said: “Karen I will always remember your smile and your humour. Fly high with the angels with no more pain God bless”
Glenda Barrow said: “Have known Karen and Kev for years such a lovely couple Karen was a wonderful lady sending love to all the family”
Sonia Kelly said: “So grateful I got time to spend with her in work.. always had something to laugh about..she will be remembered always.. love to her family”
Stuart Davies added: “Karen was a wonderful woman that loved her family very much. Glad I got the chance to meet her and work with her for a couple of years. RIP x”
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