Matt McBriar, one half of the renowned Northern Irish electronic music duo Bicep, recently underwent surgery for a large and rare brain tumour. The artist shared his health update on Instagram, revealing that he had been experiencing symptoms of fatigue and headaches towards the end of 2023. These symptoms eventually led to the discovery of a craniopharyngioma, a rare type of brain tumour.
The 38-year-old Belfast native posted a photo from his hospital bed, informing his followers that he had undergone surgery on August 9. McBriar expressed gratitude as the surgery was successful, and he is currently in the recovery phase. He also shared some of his symptoms to raise awareness among others about the signs to look out for.
McBriar’s journey began with intense localized headaches and fatigue, prompting him to seek medical attention. After several blood tests and imaging scans, he was diagnosed with a large craniopharyngioma tumor on his pituitary gland. Despite the challenging diagnosis, McBriar remained positive, emphasizing that the tumor was non-cancerous and caught in the early stages of development.
Craniopharyngiomas are considered rare tumors, accounting for less than 1% of all adult brain tumors, according to Cancer Research UK. McBriar’s proactive approach to his health allowed for early detection and intervention, potentially preventing further complications such as vision loss and other neurological issues.
Following his surgery, McBriar faces a six to eight-week recovery period and ongoing aftercare. Despite the challenges ahead, he expressed gratitude towards the healthcare professionals who cared for him, highlighting the importance of the NHS and the support he received during his treatment.
In light of his recovery process, McBriar announced that his Bicep partner, Andy, will be handling solo performances for the duo until further notice. He expressed deep appreciation for the support from his family, friends, and colleagues during this challenging time, acknowledging their unwavering presence as his rock.
The electronic music community rallied around McBriar, with fellow artists like Disclosure sending their well wishes and encouragement. As he continues to focus on his healing journey, McBriar remains optimistic and thankful for the support system that surrounds him.
Early Symptoms and Diagnosis
McBriar’s health journey began with the onset of unusual symptoms, including localized headaches and fatigue. These warning signs prompted him to seek medical attention, leading to a series of tests and scans to determine the underlying cause.
After receiving blood tests that indicated abnormalities, McBriar underwent an MRI and CT scan, which revealed the presence of a large craniopharyngioma tumor on his pituitary gland. Despite the shock of the diagnosis, McBriar remained positive, focusing on the fact that the tumor was non-cancerous and detected in its early stages.
Rare Nature of Craniopharyngiomas
Craniopharyngiomas are classified as rare brain tumors, accounting for less than 1% of all adult brain tumor cases. These tumors typically develop near the pituitary gland and can cause various symptoms depending on their size and location.
McBriar’s proactive approach to his health allowed for the early detection of the craniopharyngioma, enabling prompt medical intervention to remove the tumor. By sharing his experience and symptoms, McBriar hopes to raise awareness about the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking timely medical care.
Gratitude and Support
Throughout his health journey, McBriar expressed gratitude for the healthcare professionals who provided him with exceptional care and support. He emphasized the importance of the NHS and the dedicated individuals who played a vital role in his treatment and recovery process.
Additionally, McBriar extended his thanks to his family, friends, and colleagues for their unwavering support during this challenging time. Their love and encouragement served as a source of strength for McBriar as he navigated through surgery and embarked on his path to recovery.
As he continues to focus on healing and recuperation, McBriar remains grateful for the outpouring of support from the electronic music community and fans worldwide. Their well wishes and positive energy have contributed to his resilience and determination to overcome this health obstacle.
In conclusion, Matt McBriar’s journey highlights the importance of proactive health management, early detection, and the power of a strong support system during times of adversity. As he continues to progress in his recovery, McBriar’s resilience and gratitude serve as an inspiration to many facing similar challenges.