When Nigel Sellar was diagnosed with glioblastoma in June 2024 at the age of 66, it came as a shock.

His journey began with episodes of visual disturbance, followed by surgery and standard-of-care treatment. In January 2025, after completing his first cycle of monthly temozolomide (TMZ), Nigel started using Optune after researching additional treatment options and accessing the device through private medical insurance.

Adapting to life with Optune has taken time. Here, Nigel and his wife Jane share what they’ve learned, the challenges they’ve encountered and some of the practical ways they’ve made Optune part of everyday life.

Adjusting to Optune: Nigel’s perspective

“Initially, I was anxious and apprehensive about how restrictive Optune might be on my quality of life. It’s a huge adjustment, and at first, it felt overwhelming. But you quickly learn the best ways to manage it.”

One of the biggest initial changes was shaving his head.

“Going from a full head of hair to fully shaved was daunting at first, but I quickly got used to the new look.”

Nigel has developed a routine that works for him, keeping his arrays on for around two and a half days before taking a few hours off ahead of reapplying them.

“It’s nice to do something in that time off, enjoying the freedom of no backpack or wires.”

Carrying the device has brought some physical challenges too.

“The weight of it does cause some musculoskeletal problems, but the benefits outweigh this.”

For Nigel, support from the people around him has been an important part of adapting to treatment.

“Sue from Optune has been invaluable and I couldn’t do this without my wife, Jane. She does all the research, changes the arrays and helps me figure out the alarms.”

Supporting someone using Optune: Jane’s experience

Jane has taken an active role in helping Nigel manage the practical side of Optune, from applying arrays to troubleshooting alarms.

“At first, applying the arrays seemed quite complicated, but I’ve learned how to do it more quickly. I always cut around the edges to ensure a better fit and adjust them to avoid sore areas.”

She has also found practical ways to help Nigel feel more comfortable when they’re out and about.

“I bought a variety of bandanas – bamboo material is soft and comfortable. I also found a couple of wide-brimmed hats that are water-resistant and provide shade. They’re easy to carry and helpful if the weather changes.”

One unexpected learning curve has been getting used to the device’s alarms.

“I’m always listening for the alarm, especially in crowded or noisy places. It’s much louder if it goes off during the night! The key is working together to figure out the cause, checking connections in a logical order.”

Despite the practical challenges, Jane finds reassurance in seeing the device working.

“I love seeing that blue light shining – it means we have a tumour treating field.”

What Nigel and Jane have learned

Through trial and error, Nigel and Jane have found a number of things that have helped them adapt to everyday life with Optune.

Give yourself time to adjust.
The first few weeks can feel overwhelming. Nigel found that using the device became more manageable as he developed his own routines.

Make the most of time without the device.
When Nigel takes a planned break for an array change, he enjoys doing something without the backpack and wires.

Look after your scalp.
Finding a scalp-care routine that works has been an ongoing part of adapting to treatment.

Find comfortable headwear.
Jane has found soft bamboo bandanas and wide-brimmed hats useful for keeping Nigel comfortable and providing some protection from the weather.

Get to know the alarms.
Learning what different problems might cause an alarm and checking the connections methodically has made troubleshooting easier for them.

Accept support.
For Nigel, having Jane involved with array changes, research and the practicalities of the device has made a significant difference.

Everyone’s experience of Optune is different, so these are Nigel and Jane’s personal experiences rather than medical guidance. Speak to your healthcare team or Device Support Specialist about your own treatment and any problems with the device or your scalp.

Life with Optune

Nigel and Jane’s experience shows that adapting to Optune can involve a fair amount of trial and error.

What initially felt overwhelming has gradually become part of their routine, while family life, days out and time with their granddaughter have continued alongside treatment.

Nigel, Jane and their daughter Caitlin hope that sharing what they’ve learned might make things a little easier for somebody else starting out.

Thank you to Nigel, Jane and Caitlin for sharing their story.

If you’re using Optune, considering treatment or supporting somebody who is, you can also connect with other patients and families through the Optune Support UK community.

To learn more about the science behind Optune, visit Novocure’s website.