Survivior’s Story in a Nutshell

I found out I had a brain tumor when I was 28 years old.

At the time, I was planning my wedding and starting a new job. I had 9 surgeries to place and revise my brain shunt and ultimately had a 3rd ventriculostomy procedure. Then 6 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, followed by a life flight to UCSF and back.

I was able to almost fully recover finally after about 13 months off work. I still have a visual deficit caused by a blood clot in my brain from one of my surgeries and some weakness on my left side.

All in all, I’m very happy to be here living my new normal. My tumor was not removed, and I truly hope it doesn’t turn ugly again. But life is short. Love is long. I try not to take anything for granted. My husband has stood by me every step of the way, as well as my loving family. I am one lucky girl.

Thanks for letting me share.

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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.