Matthew Newman’s Anaplastic Astrocytoma Grade 3 Story: “Cancer Will Never Define My Legacy”
At just 39 years old, Matthew Newman, a husband and father of three, was living a busy life when everything changed. After suffering from severe headaches and a series of frightening neurological episodes, Matthew was diagnosed with an Anaplastic Astrocytoma Grade 3, a rare and aggressive type of brain tumour.
Today, more than a decade later, Matthew continues to inspire others through his writing, public speaking, and unwavering determination to live life on his own terms.
When the Headaches Began
Matthew’s journey started in January 2013 following a car accident. What initially seemed like a normal headache quickly became something much more serious.
“I had been having brutal headaches since January 2013. I was in a car accident, and the headaches began that night. They got worse and worse every day. Within a week, I started losing all ability to sleep.”
Just two weeks later, while delivering a presentation, Matthew experienced a terrifying episode.
“I felt a hot flash hit me. Slur and gurgle poured out of my mouth. I didn’t know where I was or what was going on. I saw myself standing outside my body, telling me I was having a stroke.”
The episode lasted only seconds but felt like an eternity. Similar events happened repeatedly.
After the eleventh episode, Matthew went to the hospital seeking answers.
Doctors initially described the abnormality as a lesion and ordered multiple MRI and MRA scans. Then, in the early hours of the morning, everything changed.
“At 3am they needed to do one more scan. The nurse looked at the paperwork and said, ‘Mr Newman, we need to see how big your brain tumour is.'”
In that moment, Matthew’s life changed forever.
Understanding Anaplastic Astrocytoma Grade 3
Anaplastic Astrocytoma Grade 3 is a malignant brain tumour that develops from star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes. It is considered a high-grade tumour, meaning it grows more aggressively than lower-grade astrocytomas and often requires intensive treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.
For Matthew, the diagnosis meant preparing for a difficult journey ahead.
Facing Chemotherapy and Radiation
Matthew underwent treatment with Temodar (temozolomide) chemotherapy alongside radiotherapy.
Initially, he felt confident.
“When I originally started chemo and radiation, I was really in beast mode. I felt confident and not intimidated by either. I had this.”
However, treatment quickly taught him how demanding the journey would be.
His oncologist prescribed anti-nausea medication, but Matthew thought he wouldn’t need it.
“I told him, ‘I’ve got this. I don’t need it.’ I was put in my place very quickly by the realness and severity of chemo and radiation.”
The side effects hit hard.
“I threw up for hours and realised what I had gotten into.”
Despite the challenges, Matthew remained determined to keep control of his life.
“Every day I would wake up, work out, and go get radiation. I would own that day. It was mine, not cancer’s.”
He experienced many common side effects of treatment, including hair loss, weight loss, fatigue, and loss of taste.
“I didn’t care. I was alive and present for my family. That’s all that mattered.”
Life After Treatment
More than ten years after his diagnosis, Matthew continues to do remarkably well.
“I have no real issues. I take no medication.”
Regular MRI scans remain part of his life, helping monitor for any signs of recurrence. Over time, the intervals between scans have increased from every three months to every five months, reflecting his ongoing stability.
“I am a Warrior, and we are a family of Warriors.”
Finding Purpose Through Writing
During his cancer journey, Matthew began writing messages to friends, family, and clients.
Writing became more than a hobby—it became a way to process fear, uncertainty, and hope.
“Writing became my catharsis. It helped me deal with the fear and anxiety I would push down deep into my belly.”
Those personal reflections eventually became a memoir, Starting At The Finish Line.
“I wrote my book for me. I never anticipated anyone would read it.”
To his surprise, the book became an Amazon bestseller shortly after publication.
Sharing His Story
Matthew’s experience also inspired him to become a speaker.
What began as small presentations within the financial services industry evolved into keynote speaking engagements across the United States.
“I speak because it breeds connection. It lets others know they are not alone on their journey.”
While he continues to work in financial services, helping others through storytelling has become one of his greatest passions.
The People Who Inspired Him
Throughout his cancer journey, Matthew drew strength from those around him.
He credits his parents, his father-in-law Larry—who was battling pancreatic cancer at the same time—and especially his wife.
“My wife took on every challenge and just did what she had to do to be there for her family.”
When asked what motivates him, his answer is simple.
“My family.”
Advice for Others Facing a Brain Tumour Diagnosis
Matthew’s message to newly diagnosed patients and families is one of strength and ownership.
“You control your legacy. You own that.”
He believes that while cancer may become part of someone’s story, it should never become their identity.
“Cancer may take us physically, but it will never take us spiritually. This is our journey. Cancer is just along for the ride.”
His advice is powerful:
“Fight like a warrior, and your legacy will become legendary.”
Looking Ahead
Matthew continues to support brain tumour awareness and fundraising efforts through organizations such as Head for the Cure. He participates in annual events to raise money and awareness for brain cancer research and remains committed to encouraging others facing difficult diagnoses.
“The relationship I have with cancer will not end. It will forever be a part of my life’s journey. But I will use my journey with cancer to be better.”
For Matthew, slowing down is not an option.
“Cancer will never crush my optimism or my strength, nor will it define my legacy.”
Connect With Matthew
You can follow Matthew’s journey and learn more about his work through his social media channels, website, and his memoir ‘Starting At The Finish Line’
Find Matthew online here:
Email: newmanium23@mac.com
