Scots doctor detected own brain tumour as symptoms kicked in on family holiday
An Edinburgh GP was given a devastating diagnosis after recognising her own symptoms and seeking urgent medical care.
Dr Jo Duncan, a full-time GP for 26 years, travelled to Sydney in April last year to see her daughter Maisie at the end of a gap year.
But after arriving, the 51-year-old started experiencing concerning symptoms, including persistent fatigue, unsteadiness, and dizziness, reports Edinburgh Live.
Jo initially put the symptoms down down to jet lag but her clinical background pushed her to seek urgent medical advice.
The mum was admitted to Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred Hospital on April 28, where an MRI revealed a brain tumour in her cerebellum.
Daughter Maisie, 19, said: 'My mum is the most determined and caring person I know. She has always been the rock of our family – someone who's active, strong-minded and endlessly supportive.
'When we were in Sydney, she just wasn't herself. She was tired all the time, losing her balance, and struggling in ways I had never seen before. She knew straight away that something was wrong. Her instincts as a doctor and her ability to advocate for herself were the reason we got answers so quickly. I really believe that saved her life.'
On May 1 2024, Jo underwent emergency surgery. Although the tumour was confirmed to be low-grade, it had caused significant pressure on her brain, leading to long-term complications. The operation was a success, but her recovery has been difficult.
She was left with right-sided facial palsy, hearing loss in one ear, impaired balance, cognitive difficulties and swallowing problems.
Jo returned to Scotland at the end of May 2024. The emotional and physical toll was evident, as she adjusted to the new challenges brought on by her diagnosis.
'It was heartbreaking to see someone so vibrant and independent suddenly struggling with basic things like walking, eating and even smiling,' said Maisie.
'Mum became very low after she came home, which was really hard for us to see. But despite everything, she's been rebuilding her strength day by day.
"She's back to doing things she loves, like baking and pottering around the house. It means so much to see her slowly getting her confidence back.'
In honour of her mum and to support others affected by brain tumours, Maisie recently completed the Edinburgh Half Marathon, raising funds for Brain Tumour Research – the only national charity focused on finding a cure for all types of brain tumours.
She trained while completing her first year of a multimedia journalism degree at Glasgow Caledonian University and coaching gymnastics part-time.
On the race day in May, Maisie ran the entire 13.1 miles without stopping and raised over £1,380 for the charity.
Maisie said: 'Before this happened, I didn't know much about brain tumours but I was shocked to learn just how underfunded research into this disease is. That just doesn't feel right so I chose to support this charity because I want to help change that statistic.
"The charity is funding vital work, including the Centre of Excellence, which could be life-changing for families like mine.
'Running in Mum's honour was emotional and the atmosphere on the day was incredible. Completing this race wasn't just about the distance but about being part of something that could lead to real change. Seeing my mum at the finish line was one of the proudest moments of my life. She told me she was so, so proud, and I'll never forget that.
'Mum was still working full time as a GP when she became ill, after 26 years in the role. She's now in the process of seeking medical retirement, which shows just how much her life has changed in such a short space of time."
Ashley McWilliams, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: 'Maisie's story is incredibly moving. Her decision to take on this challenge in honour of her mum, Jo, and to raise vital awareness of brain tumours, shows real strength and compassion. Jo's experience highlights how indiscriminate and life-changing this disease
can be. We're honoured to have Maisie's support, and the money she's raised will help fund the pioneering work taking place at our new Centre of Excellence in Scotland. Every step she ran and every pound she raised brings us closer to better outcomes for patients and, ultimately, a cure.'
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