A NEWPORT housing association inspired by the battle of a former colleague will be raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity with a special event.

Newport City Homes will be holding a cake sale, raffle and a dress-down day to help raise funds followed by a quiz night for former and existing colleagues on June 26.

The charity was chosen by former colleague Diane Leigh, who underwent surgery to remove a cyst and a brain tumour last year.

Ms Leigh started work for Newport City Council in September 2008 and moved to Newport City Homes after stock transfer in March 2009.

She was the organisation’s governance officer until ill-health prevented her from returning to work.

Ms Leigh first realised that she had a serious underlying condition when she experienced her first seizure.

In 2012, she had a further two seizures and in 2013 her general health took a turn for the worse which resulted in numerous tests being conducted.

She was living on her own in Cardiff at the time so by December of that year it was decided that she move back to Llandeilo to be with her family.

Soon after her move home, Ms Leigh had an MRI scan which revealed a cyst and brain tumour.

She said: "It goes without saying that my family and friends were devastated, as was I. My whole life changed."

During the months after surgery, Ms Leigh was determined to remain positive and wanted to select a charity to raise funds for.

“I did a lot of research and (excuse the pun) it was a ‘no-brainer’ to support The Brain Tumour Charity," she said.

"Brain tumours have one of the poorest survival rates and need more money spent and invested to find a cure.”

The Brain Tumour Charity is the UK’s largest brain tumour charity and funds scientific and clinical research into brain tumours and offer support and information to those affected, whilst raising awareness and influencing policy.