A COURAGEOUS woman battling a terminal brain tumour says the past year was the "worst and best" of her life as she has cause for a triple celebration.

Anna Swabey, 24, was diagnosed with a grade three brain tumour around this time last year when she was told she had months, or at most three years, to live.

Since then the university graduate, of Newton Aycliffe, has dedicated her precious time to raising awareness about the issue and fundraising for brain tumour research.

And in the space of those 12 months Miss Swabey has met her future husband, she has been appointed an honourary Rotarian, and her campaigning efforts have paid off as a petition she has been driving forwards is set to be debated in parliament.

"Considering last year I was in despair, my life has turned around," she said. "Despite my diagnosis I've never felt so content - I've found a purpose and I've found the love of my life."

Following her diagnosis, Miss Swabey began raising money for the Brain Tumour Research Campaign and has been promoting a petition urging the Government to fund more research into brain tumours.

In its six months online it attracted more than 120,000 signatures - tipping over the 100,000 mark on January 29 - which means it will be debated in parliament.

"It was really incredible to be a part of something that big," she said.

As a result of her charity work Miss Swabey has been named an honourary member of Newton Aycliffe Rotary Club.

The club has also nominated her for the UK Rotary Young Citizen of the Year award for which she said she was "touched" and "honoured".

But perhaps the most life-changing event in recent months was Miss Swabey's engagement to Andy Bell, 26, who she met one year ago this week.

She said: "When I was first diagnosed and eventually once I got over the shock I remember speaking to my mum and saying 'I will never be in love or get married and have children'.

"I say everything happens for a reason and as much as it was the worst year of my life it has been the best.

Now living together, the pair are planning their wedding for September.

"It will be about making memories and making the most of the time with the ones you love," she said.