Support Ana: losing her battle with Brain Cancer

My Optune treatment

Optune treatment

In June 2021, I was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme Grade IV. This is a very aggressive brain tumor. The average life expectancy is 12-18 months. For me it has been three years. But now it is progressing fast and my body is failing.

Since my first surgery I have felt very sick due to the radiation, three types of chemotherapy, and oral treatments.

My tumor was found in the cerebellum. The part of the brain that controls the body’s coordination and movement. The tumor was very close to the brain stem. The surgeons didn’t want to go near the sensitive organ and they removed only 90% of it.

The tumor grew again in 2023. I had surgery to removed it again. Less than one year later, in 2024, it is now wrapped along the brain stem.

My oncologist and surgeon both agreed against performing another surgery. They said that because there was already scar tissue in both the skull and the skin, a new incision wouldn’t heal well and they would cause more harm instead of making things better.

The last few weeks I started noticing double vision in my eyesight, severe loss in hearing in my right ear, trouble walking, and loss of taste buds. I have had to watch my 69yr old mother help me, a 29yr old, do basic tasks.

I’m not afraid of death. I’m afraid of leaving my mother behind with financial burdens. This fundraiser is to alleviate some of that burden.

From the depth of mine and my mother’s hearts we thank every single bit of help!