Grace’s NF1 story - Nothing stops me
10 January 2022
My name is Grace, I am 18 years old. I was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 when I was 2 years old.
For me it has resulted in a few complications, such as an optic nerve glioma, scoliosis of the spine, café au lait marks and neurofibromas.
I had 18 months of chemotherapy to shrink the tumour behind my left eye, which unfortunately left me blind on that side. I’ve been in and out of hospital a lot over the years, with many MRI scans and appointments, but I’ve never let this stop me from doing anything.
Growing up, I was always active and had a love for swimming and triathlon. Due to my visual impairment, I was able to compete in the para category in my local triathlon club events and swimming galas.
![](/images/common/Grace_Picture3_1024x768.jpg)
My biggest accomplishment within sport was when I competed in the British Blind Sport National swimming championships in Birmingham, collecting a series of gold and silver medals over the years.
![](/images/common/Grace_Picture1_1024x768.jpg)
I am currently in my first year at university studying Health and Social which I hope will lead me into a career in which I can care for people, as I know personally how important the health and social care sector is and what a difference it can make.
Filter News
![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/RAREfest20-eventbrite-email-image-2_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Rarefest 2020
RAREfest20: a free virtual, interactive science, technology, advocacy & arts exhibition with a rare twist. Visit exhibition
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/derek_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Kebabathon for Nerve Tumours UK
Find out why Des is taking on this Mammoth Meat Mission for Nerve Tumours UK
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/Artboard_5_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Coronavirus and your Mental Health
Mind offers support and advice to help you cope with the impacts of Coronavirus on your mental health and wellbeing.
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/Karen_OneMoreNurse_Mask_Campaign-blackwhite_.37402105_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
2nd Lockdown Announcement
A message from Karen our Charity Director on a 2nd national lockdown - we're here for you
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/Dexter_Parker_370x280_800_600_s_c1.png)
Dexter’s Story
A journey of acceptance with NF1 and understanding that what makes us different from one another is a gift.
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/OneMoreNurse_Mask_Campaign_Website_Header_370x280_800_600_s_c1.png)
#OneMoreNurse
Help support our Campaign, we need your ongoing support now more than ever to continue our vital Specialist NF Network
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/Student_voice_prize_website_header_370x280_800_600_s_c1.png)
#DareToThinkRare
Find out how you can take part in this year's Student Voice Prize 7th annual, international essay competition!
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/global-genes-logo-registered_370x280_800_600_s_c1.png)
RARE Champion of Hope Celebration
Join this years RARE Champion of Hope Awards hosted by Global Genes and be inspired!
Read More