Sheneice Story: I’m a Survivor

On November 23rd of this year will be five years, I was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive, slow growing tumor, at UT Southwestern Medical Center here in Dallas, Texas. I was 44 years old, I had just finished my degree in Substance Abuse Counseling, starting a new career. I thought, new beginnings. For the first time in my life I really thought I was about to soar in possibilities I had never seen before, like walking in my vision and watching my dreams come alive. I had just been blessed witnessing my son giving me my first granddaughter and daughter finishing college and having her new house built. I was jamming Mary Mary “Go Get It”, believing it was my season. And, bam out of nowhere, nothing but fear and uncertainties.

Since my diagnosis I have had two brain surgeries and radiation treatment. And the tumor is back. Currently, I see my oncology doctor to discuss MRI’s every three months.

I have experienced a lot in my life, being able to put my feet to the fire for those I love and stand but never realizing I had the resilience in me to fight harder when I got knocked down by life adversities. Going through surgeries and treatment, not being able to do the things I once could have been difficult but these experiences has caused me to draw closer to God and to hold on to his promises all the more.

I’ve been learning daily how to deal with daily challenges caused by this tumor. Daily I am in constant pain. I can’t lay down flat anymore I have to be propped up on something. My balance is off, I can’t look down or sit down on the floor since the second surgery. It causes my head to throb, my sight to go black and face to pain. And, when I drink a beverage after swallowing, it feels like it running down the right side of my head.

Living with this disease is very hard and how I have and is still surviving is by prayer and praising.

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Opinions expressed within this story belong solely to the author and do not reflect the views or opinions of the National Brain Tumor Society.