Glenn Campbell, the political editor for BBC Scotland, has become the face of resilience after facing his own fight with brain cancer. The seasoned journalist shared his personal struggles through his documentary, My Brain Tumour and Me, aired on BBC One Scotland. This raw documentary offers audiences a glimpse of Campbell's life after his sudden diagnosis, following what he thought was merely bad luck—a biking accident.
It all began on June 3, 2023, when Campbell fell off his bike after hitting uneven ground. He broke ten ribs but initially felt he had come out of it with just some bruises and is now eager to return to his duties as the BBC’s political correspondent. Just six weeks later, as he was preparing for his comeback, Campbell experienced what he thought was another physical ailment—this time, it was not just the aftermath of the crash but rather the onset of seizures prompted by detection of a malignant brain tumor—a glioblastoma, to be precise.
Campbell's sudden transition from being the storyteller to the subject of one of life’s most challenging narratives sent shockwaves through his life. For him to comprehend the gravity of brain cancer—which is known as the biggest cancer killer of individuals under 40—was unfathomable. The emotional weight he carries, compounded by the reality of having only 12 to 18 months left to live, was heavy. Nonetheless, rather than retreating from the world, Glenn chose to embrace it, determined to shine the spotlight on the little-known aspects of brain tumors.
Through the documentary, Campbell takes viewers through his experience, sharing intimate footage of himself and the gradual shift of focus from journalism to his personal battles. “It’s a golden rule as a journalist not to become the story, but I just felt this was worth sharing,” he stated, emphasizing the purpose behind sharing this painful yet important chapter of his life. He expressed the hope to raise much-needed awareness about brain cancers, which often do not receive the same level of public attention as other types of cancers do.
The documentary portrays Campbell’s transformative year, providing insight not only about the technicalities of treatment but also about the human experience embedded within the struggle. From his successful surgery removing significant tumor mass to the grueling yet necessary chemotherapy and radiotherapy, he shares often heart-wrenching moments of uncertainty and encouragement. He documented post-surgery reflections, stating, “You realize what really matters, and maybe what doesn’t quite so much,” radiantly conveying how the terrifying diagnosis offered him clarity on his priorities—faith, family, and creating joyful experiences with loved ones.
His triumphs over this seemingly insurmountable challenge are remarkable but fraught with obstacles. Campbell noted the toll of persistent fatigue, and the risk of more seizures became indication of the daily realities of living with brain cancer. Alongside the struggles lay his deeply felt gratitude for support from family and friends, and the discovery of new relationships within the cancer community. He joined forces with fellow patients on shared missions, collaborating to amplify their narratives and advocate for continued advancements against their shared foe—cancer.
Yet, Campbell’s story is not just his battle; it's reflective of the larger terrain involving brain cancer treatment. He highlighted the stagnation of brain cancer treatments, pointing out how minimal advancements have surfaced over years, reflecting the struggles many patients face within the system. Encouraged by his doctors, who wish to facilitate normalcy rather than restrict activity, he also hiked several mountains across Scotland, setting goals for himself even at times when the thought of climbing appeared uncomfortable. The refreshing air of the Scottish Highlands became both therapy and inspiration for him.
What makes My Brain Tumour and Me impactful isn’t solely the sorrow but the underlying note of resilience and hope, characteristic of Campbell’s own perspective. “Six out of ten people with brain cancer do not survive for more than a year,” Campbell poignantly remarks, “but I may be around for some years yet,” showcasing the tenacity with which he battles not just his illness but the associated fear of mortality. He attempts to embrace life rather than escape it, celebrating personal victories like getting back on his bike after not being able to ride for months.
This personal documentary serves as not only viewers’ introduction to Campbell’s roller-coaster of emotions but as extensive education about the raw realities of living with cancer. With every high and low detailed, there’s the reminder of what it means to live fully, even when faced with uncertainty. Campbell’s efforts extend beyond himself, appealing to viewers’ sentiments providing them insight not only to his cancer but the countless others undergoing similar challenges, inviting them to examine not just the illness but also the spirit of community permeated by these experiences.
Through My Brain Tumour and Me, Campbell aims to reshape the narrative surrounding brain tumours by fostering conversations, encouraging more to understand the importance of research, and actively taking part against cancer’s ubiquitous grip on society. He embodies the spirit of defiance, asserting he’s still here, alive, and kicking, against all odds—a commendable call to action, urging people not only to tune in but truly listen.
The documentary aired on BBC One Scotland, and Campbell passionately encourages viewers to learn more about the illness, share their stories, and contribute to the fight against brain cancer. With uplifting visuals of Scotland's sprawling landscapes amid gripping moments of vulnerability, Campbell's fight resonates with anyone touched by similar battles.
His final interviews resonate with the idea of hope and community—a call to action, to observe what truly matters when stripped down to the essentials of kindness, companionship, love, and the joy found even within the turbulent framework of life-threatening illness.
