Lily's Fight

Hi! My name is Lily. I am 25 years old. I love music (especially singing), watching & playing sports, and I have true passion for helping others! I've always dreamt of traveling the world, meeting new people, and growing into the best version of myself.


Everything in my life seemed to be going pretty well, a place in Washington D.C., a great job at the busiest hotel in the city, and making lots of new friends. Life couldn't get any better for a 22 year old who was making her mark on the world!


However, I had always suffered from migraines and dizziness. Then, one night I was in a terrible car accident that left me unconscious! All I remember is my sister waking me up and by the grace of God we were OK, but it was really bad! Once in the hospital, I was told that I needed to see my medical providers. Shortly after and 3 doctors later, on August 20, 2015, I was diagnosed with a benign a tumor (osteoma) of the skull and face. I was told that it was malignant and they needed to operate as soon as possible! I will never forget what my surgeon told me that day! She said, "you are one of the lucky ones" and not to scare me, but that I wouldn't see the age of 30 if they hadn't found it! That car accident actually saved my life! Thank you Jesus!


Most of the tumor was blocking my right frontal sinus and part of my right eye as well as being attached to my skull and growing up towards my brain. This explains why I had been suffering with intense migraines! She said we have 2 options. My first option was to have Open Head surgery, where everything would be removed, but it would be a long recovery and pretty messy. The second option was to go through my nose  endoscopically, which would be less invasive. So, we went with Option 2. After 2 surgeries and hours of operating I was told that I was going to need Open Head surgery after all!! My heart sank, and I felt so scared and defeated!


After I had my 2 surgeries, I was barely able to function. The surgeries have left me battling with depression, lethargy, anxiety and suicidal thoughts, constantly being sick with intense migraines, nausea & dizziness, and feeling like I was going to pass out when I exert myself in any way! I had to rely on others to help me with everything, which was so hard for an independent person like myself. You see, I've always taken pride in being able to live on my own since I was a teenager. I'm independent & self-sufficient, always helping others. I've never been the one asking for help, and this is very hard for me to accept. I'm forever grateful for the love and support that I've been shown!


However, my battle still isn't over!! I need to have one more surgery that is crucial, but I have NO way of paying for it anymore! I am literally drowning and afraid that the clock is still ticking! The tumor that is attached to my skull is still growing up towards my brain! I just want my life back! I want to work, sing, exercise, and more than anything, I want to see my mother smile, instead of seeing her worry about me when I can barely get out of bed. I would love to go back to school and help others just like me! I want to travel, get married, and one day be a mommy! In my heart, I know I will see 30 and beyond, but I can't do this alone, not anymore!


This is my story, pride aside and all, just me being as humble as I can be. Please, I need financial help to pay for my surgery and my past medical bills and would welcome prayers to help regain the girl I once was! This is my fight!