Cluster headaches turned out to be caused by six-inch brain tumour

Mike Palmer. Photo: Headway Norfolk and Waveney (Image: Headway Norfolk and Waveney)

But as the pain worsened and tests were carried out Mike discovered he had a six-inch brain tumour which would have to be surgically removed.

This week, for Action for Brain Injury week, this newspaper has teamed up with charity Headway Norfolk and Waveney to tell the stories of those who have lived through brain injuries to show the impact it has on them and those around them.

One of those was Mike, 55, from Norwich, who came across Headway when his GP referred him to the specialist neurological rehabilitation unit based a Norwich's Colman Hospital.

The hospital has close links with the charity, which offers a number of programmes for those with brain injuries.

Mike Palmer. Photo: Headway Norfolk and Waveney (Image: Headway Norfolk and Waveney)

Brain injuries are often hidden, and although Mike does suffer physically with numbness on the left side of his body, it was those less obvious struggles which have the biggest impact.

He said: 'My brain tumour didn't just change my life, it also turned the lives of so many people close to me upside down.'

He said he suffered with depression, anxiety, anger and frustration as part of his injury, and did not feel like the same person.

He added: 'Headway Norfolk and Waveney has helped us all to understand what is going on and given us some very practical help along the way. I want to help others to understand the help that is on offer and the difference that it can make.'

• May 14 - 20 is Action for Brain Injury Week. Throughout the week a film exhibition put together by clients of Headway Norfolk and Waveney will be on show at Castle Mall. Find them on the second floor, near Boots or visit www.headway-nw.org.uk for more information.