A TEENAGER who was struck down by a brain tumour has helped make a powerful film about cancer, in a bid to raise awareness of the disease among young people.

Jonny Cunliffe, aged 19, was diagnosed in September, 2006, after suffering headaches for around two months. He had surgery to remove the tumour, followed by six weeks of radiotherapy as an outpatient at the Young Oncology Unit (YOU) at The Christie in Manchester.

Jonny, of Buttermere Road, Farnworth, said: “I had a headache for ages, but it was diagnosed as being migraines. By coincidence I went to the optician and he spotted something which concerned him so he sent me for a CT scan which showed a tumour in my brain.

“The radiotherapy was horrible. I felt really unwell and nauseous. But the staff at The Christie were absolutely fantastic.”

While undergoing treatment, he joined the Christie Crew, a group of young people who work to raise money for the YOU and raise awareness of cancer. They came up with the idea of making a film.

The film, entitled “Sometimes it’s Cancer,” features short clips about the youngsters, and what they went through before and after being diagnosed with the disease.

Jonny, who is now studying for a music theatre degree at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston, said: “We wanted to raise awareness of teenage cancer. Hopefully, we can get people to think about it and realise it doesn’t just affect old people.”

Sam Smith, a specialist nurse at the teenage cancer unit, said: “It’s a powerful film, featuring inspirational teenagers giving important messages through their own stories. Our patients have worked hard on this film for a year and their enthusiasm and passion in the production of the DVD is what makes it so special.”

The DVD will premiere at a special event held at Lancashire Cricket Club in Manchester on Friday, November 28, at 7pm. Anyone who works with young people in education, social or health care, business or leisure in Bolton is invited to the event. Email lorraine.case@christie.nhs.uk.