A student who battled against a double brain tumour two years into his degree at the University of Sunderland achieved his goal of graduating at the Stadium of Light after recovering from his illness and returning to his studies.
James Mayman, 26, from Kingston upon Hull, Yorkshire, graduated with a degree in drama after two years of treatment for brain cancer with his proud family and girlfriend Jessica Shepherd in attendance, five years after he first arrived in Sunderland.
James was diagnosed with two brain tumours shortly after starting his third year at university after complaining of severe headaches and rushing to the doctors
The graduate, who is now returning to live in home city of Kingston upon Hull had to have two brain operations three days after being diagnosed at the Newcastle Royal Victoria Infirmary and before beginning chemotherapy, followed by radiotherapy as he put up a two-year fight against the illness. James was given his final session of radiotherapy on his 25th birthday last year before returning to the University of Sunderland.
James enjoyed his time at university so much that he wanted to prove to himself and others that he could complete his course and beat the illness, before reaching his goal of becoming a professional actor and is currently looking for an agent.
He said: “It was such a tough time and a shock to me when the doctors told me why I was getting such severe headaches. It was a really tough time and a battle I was determined not to lose. I always wanted to come back to university and beat the odds and I can’t tell you how great it feels to graduate.
“I’d love to continue with my life now and begin acting, I can’t think of anything better than getting paid for what I want to do. I’ve had so much support from Sunderland, including from lecturers and fellow students, to go on stage and graduate and see those who have supported me was the icing on the cake.”
Jessica added: “When James got a scan to show no signs of any tumours in 2013 he decided to head back to University which made me and his family very proud. Words can't describe how amazing it was to finally watch James graduate after all he has been through and all the hard work he had put in to his final year. The Stadium of Light was a great place to come as it added to the feeling of such a special day for myself, James and all of the family.”