Welcome to My Personal Page
On February 28th, 2022 while 13 weeks pregnant, I underwent brain surgery to remove an orange sized tumor from the right side of my brain. A few weeks later, the tumor was confirmed to be an oligodendroglioma, grade III - which is cancer.
Only 1-week passed from my first symptom to surgery. I had no headaches, seizures, or obvious warning signs. I simply woke up one morning and everything felt different. My mobility was off and simple things like typing were lost. That trip to the ER and the doctor showing me the image of my brain with a white mass is something I will never forget. All the worst things in the world go through your mind.
I was transferred to Georgetown University Hospital, and since I was pregnant, it was recommended that I wait till after I deliver to undergo surgery. I did not see that as an option and instead told my neurosurgeon that I wanted to proceed. I understood the risks, but I also knew that caring for a newborn post brain surgery sounded even more ridiculous - and waiting several months to know what the growth in my brain was did not sit easy for me. Because everything happened so fast I believe it was easier to process - I had no choice but to move forward, which is what I did.
My recovery is still ongoing, but if you see or talk to me you would know no difference. My scars are hidden, my speech, cognition and energy are just the same as before - fast and full of energy! My main limiting factor is mostly depth and visual perception, limiting my driving ability - but thankfully I live in a walkable community and my mom is close by to take me to doctor appointments. I have been so fortunate to have an amazing medical care team and the support of family and friends.
As I continue to heal and my most recent scans show no growth, I have embraced a mindset where I am not going to let cancer dictate who I am and what I can be. While I may have to adjust to a new normal, I am happy with the progress I have made thus far in bouncing back from my initial diagnosis. I am grateful that I do not have to go through immediate chemo or radiation because there is no current growth, but I also know that this may not always be the case. If and when this changes, I will take it head on.
Your donation and support to the National Brain Tumor Society will aid those who do not have the support that I do and fund research to find a cure. I am truly thankful for my friends and family who provided love and support - as it kept me strong in my weak moments and gave me the strength to stay positive and focus on recovery. Thank you for your support - I am forever grateful!
National Brain Tumor Society is fiercely committed to finding a cure for brain tumors. They are aggressively driving strategic research; advocating for public policies that meet the critical needs of the brain tumor community; and providing comprehensive patient, family and caregiver resources. Your support ensures this important work will continue.
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