Imagine smelling something so strong it almost knocks you off your feet. That’s exactly what happened to Sam Suriakumar, a 40-year-old father of two from South London. What seemed like just a weird, overpowering smell turned out to be the first clue of a life-changing diagnosis: an inoperable brain tumor.
In early 2020, Sam experienced a bizarre and nauseating smell – like ammonia or strong bleach – twice in two days. The first time, it hit him in the family bathroom. The second, during a workout at the gym. “The smell filled my mouth,” Sam recalled. “I had to lean against the wall; I felt dizzy and drained.”
Sam with his family on holiday (Brain Tumour Research/PA Real Life)
Shortly afterward, Sam suffered a grand mal seizure while riding the London Underground. The seizure was so severe it dislocated his shoulder. He then had two more seizures in the ambulance.
Doctors discovered a large mass on the left side of his brain, which was later diagnosed as an inoperable tumor affecting areas tied to speech, memory, and movement.
💪 Turning Pain into Purpose
But Sam didn’t let the diagnosis define him. Instead, he leaned into his love for fitness and his powerful positive mindset. Over the next two years, his tumor remained stable. Even when it began growing again in 2023, Sam didn’t back down.
Sam had to have extensive radiotherapy and chemotherapy (Brain Tumour Research/PA Real Life)
Despite undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy, Sam kept pushing forward. He ran the 2023 London Marathon, raising over £60,000 for Brain Tumour Research, and even competed in the HYROX fitness challenge in Belgium – just six months after finishing treatment!
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“Your brain talks to every part of your body. A positive mindset is everything,” Sam says. “Even on tough days, find those small things that inspire you.”
🧠 What Can We Learn from Sam’s Story?
Sam’s journey is a powerful reminder to listen to your body – even something as unusual as a strong chemical smell could be a neurological warning sign. In fact, studies have shown that phantom smells can sometimes be linked to brain activity or tumors. Read more about phantom smells from Cleveland Clinic.
Sam credits a positive mindset and keeping fit (Brain Tumour Research/PA Real Life)
He also shows us the power of hope, fitness, and mindset in facing even the most difficult challenges.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Sam Suriakumar’s story isn’t just inspiring – it’s life-saving. By sharing the unusual symptoms that led to his diagnosis and showing how he’s stayed strong through treatment, he’s helping others stay alert and positive too.
If you want to support brain tumor research or learn more, visit Brain Tumour Research.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always consult a qualified expert before making decisions based on this information.
