A few months ago my sister Anita starting getting bad headaches, dizziness, nausea, experiencing vision problems and trouble with her ears.  After months of going back and forth to the Dr's for 'sinus issues' she went in to see a ENT specialist.  During her evaluation and testing the Dr. found that she was loosing some hearing in both of her ears which was not normal for someone her age.  They were concerned about these abnormal symptoms and  sent her in for an MRI.
        On June 29, 2016 my sister was diagnosed with a Pineal brain tumor. This is a tumor that is located in the very center of your brain on your Pineal Gland ( never heard of that? neither have I ).  These tumors are very rare and cause a blockage of the cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which can cause all of the symptoms she has been experiencing and much more.  Unfortunately with this type of tumor, due to its location, many surgeons will not operate or will wait until the worst possible symptoms occur. (Siezures, blindness,etc.) She was lucky to find one of the very few Dr's who will perform this surgery  here in LA. Dr Shahinian of the Skull Base Institute. This Dr. developed the fully endoscopic Pineal Tumor removal surgery which allows him to access the tumor from a 'key hole'  incision as apposed to an open craniotomy. This endoscopic procedure is her best bet because it presents less risks with a 98.5% success rate.  Anita was able to meet with this specialist quickly who feels that he will be able to completely remove the tumor ( giving Anita her life back )  and has a surgery date of August 23, 2016.                                                           
                                                                                                                                   As time continues to pass her symptoms are continuing to worsen.  She is now experiencing numbness and tingling in her hands and legs as well as severe vertigo, migraines and extreme fatigue which is now causing her to miss more work. 

        Unfortunately this surgeon is not in network with any medical providers and the out of pocket expense for the Surgeon alone is $42,000.  This does not include the cost of the consults, the pathologist the anesthesiologist or the time missed from work.  Anita just had sugery last summer to remove ovarian tumors, and is still trying to pay off those medical bills. With the stress and axiety of knowing you have a brain tumor and facing  surgery in a months time, I am trying to help alleviate some of  the financial burden. My family has come up with the funds for the deposite to secure her surgery date ( which was required upfront ) but the expenses keep adding up and we need help. 
                                                                                                                                    She is my baby sister and I hate watching her go through all of this. I am fearful ( as well as the rest of my family ) for her to have to have BRAIN SURGERY, but we do feel confident in the Dr she has found and just want to make this scary and difficult time as easy for her as possible. If you find it in your heart to donate, remeber, no amount is too small and is GREATLY appreciated. If you are unable to donate my family asks if you could please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.