AN Alton grandmother has finally had an operation for a brain tumour, after having the operation cancelled twice in recent months.
The operation was a matter of urgency for Shirley Cunningham, who was treated for a rapidly growing and potentially fatal brain tumour.
As featured in the Alton Herald at the end of March, a succession of cancelled operations, because of bed shortages, scheduled for January 31 and then March 14, had left Mrs Cunningham devastated.
She and her husband were relieved to get the call from Southampton neurological centre at 8 am on Monday, April 2 informing them that there was a bed ready for Mrs Cunningham.
The hospital said she could come in at once which delighted the couple.
According to Mr Cunningham, everything happened very quickly and the operation took place on the Tuesday, April 3, a day earlier than originally scheduled.
The operation went smoothly and the couple are pleased it is finally over.
"We're well pleased with how the operation went," said Mr Cunningham. "The hospital staff were great."
Mrs Cunningham left hospital on April 16 and is now recovering at home where she is improving every day.
"She's still not 100 per cent," said Mr Cunningham, "but she is getting there."