‘I was a fit, active rugby player - then I was told I had just months to live’

Rugby Player's Shocking Terminal Diagnosis

An active father of two has shared his shock and disbelief after being unexpectedly diagnosed with a terminal illness. Stu Thomas, a former Tonbridge Juddian rugby player, has been told he has just months to live due to an aggressive and incurable brain cancer.

Diagnosis and Initial Reaction

Stu, 58, who has played rugby for five decades and maintained rigorous fitness, said,

“A bit of a shock was an understatement. You couldn't quite marry the physical fitness and lack of symptoms with the diagnosis.”

The surgeon bluntly informed him,

“I had about six months if we don't do anything. If we operate, it would be 12 to 18 months.”

Background and Health Status

Despite being completely fit and healthy, Stu experienced a life-changing chronic seizure on a Monday in June, which marked the beginning of his health battle. Before that, he had no symptoms, although he did notice some difficulty finding words during conversations that week.

Inspiration and Outlook

Stu has found inspiration in England rugby legend Lewis Moody and is confronting his diagnosis with courage and resolve.

Summary

Stu Thomas’s story highlights the unexpected nature of serious illness and the strength found in battling it, even after a lifetime of fitness and activity.

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Kent Online Kent Online — 2025-11-05