In a poignant tale that resonates with the enduring spirit of human determination, Dagmar Turner, a dedicated violinist from the Isle of Wight, faced the challenge of a lifetime in 2013. A longstanding member of the Isle of Wight Symphony Orchestra, Turner’s world was shaken when she experienced a seizure during a concert, leading to the discovery of an aggressive brain tumor.
Fearing the potential loss of her 40-year passion for the violin, Turner embarked on a journey that would become a testament to both medical innovation and unwavering dedication to art. The skilled hands of Professor Keyoumars Ashkan, a consultant neurosurgeon at King’s College Hospital, became the orchestrators of a unique plan to preserve Turner’s musical abilities during the intensive brain surgery.
Mapping Turner’s brain and delicately opening her skull, Professor Ashkan and his team facilitated an extraordinary performance. As surgeons carefully removed the tumor from the right frontal lobe, close to the region crucial for the fine movements of Turner’s left hand, she played melodies that echoed through the operating room. The timeless compositions of Gustav Mahler, the jazz classic “Summertime” by George Gershwin, and pieces by Spanish songwriter Julio Iglesias became the soundtrack to a surgical symphony.
“This was the first time I’ve had a patient play an instrument,” remarked Professor Ashkan. The groundbreaking procedure resulted in the successful removal of over 90 percent of the tumor, including suspicious areas, all while preserving full function in Turner’s left hand.
For Turner, whose connection with the violin began at the tender age of 10, the thought of losing her ability to play was nothing short of heartbreaking. Her gratitude towards the surgical team knew no bounds as she thanked them for safeguarding her passion.
As a dedicated member of the Isle of Wight Symphony Orchestra, Turner’s musical journey continued beyond the operating room. Her story, a melody of resilience and triumph, serves as an enduring reminder of the indomitable spirit that music can inspire in the face of adversity.
