Sara Falaro's Tumor Journey

At 27 years old, only one year after her Dad died, Sara was diagnosed with a Grade 2 Ependymoma inside her spinal cord. This tumor posed a severe threat to Sara’s ability to walk, speak, and function independently - and every doctor on her team recommended immediate surgery to remove the tumor. So, just three weeks after diagnosis, Sara went in for major spinal cord surgery to attempt a tumor removal. This is a complicated, invasive surgery, requiring a long recovery period afterwards. 

Sara’s medical team is thrilled with her recovery so far, but there was some residual tumor left behind, in order to save her ability to walk and use her hands. She continues to have post-surgery deficits, like nerve pain & numbness in her hands and torso, limited mobility, as well as general weakness and fatigue. Even still, she is making huge strides toward recovery with the help of Physical & Occupational Therapy. She has also begun seeing a Psycho Oncologist, to support her mental health during her treatment.

There ended up being several post-op infections that required three hospital stays, an at-home IV for 6 weeks, and temporary confinement, while they confirmed there were no traces of Coronavirus in her illness.

It has officially been decided by Sara's medical team that radiation is the only next option, due to the multiple complications that arose after her previous surgeries. With that, they all recommend she get Proton Radiation, as it has fewer longterm complications for people of Sara's age. It also protects the surrounding organs, which for Sara, includes her vocal cords. We are in the midst of fighting for insurance to cover this newer form of radiation therapy.

Sara is an Actor, a Singer-Songwriter, and a Branding Coach who helps people tell their stories with pride & live with radical authenticity. She learned generosity and endless kindness from her Father, who died only a year and a half ago.

As Sara focuses on healing, she cannot do many of the tasks she previously was able to - rendering her unable to work.  Already a self-employed artist struggling with the pandemic, Sara is now facing tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills, and needs a way to sustain her livelihood & continue to pay for treatment. While her insurance has covered a portion, there seems to be a significant portion that will still be out of pocket. What's more: Sara has also been diagnosed with a benign brain tumor that will eventually need to be dealt with, as well. 

With all this in mind, we are asking for support. These funds will be allocated to any and all related surgeries, physical & occupational rehabilitation, genetic testing, medications, and specialist consultations. These funds help her regain function of her hands, so she can work without severe pain. They will help her play the piano - her passion. They will give her the possibility of a long, happy future with her partner. 

Sara is one of the most genuine, kind hearted, loving people ever. She is hugely committed to living with audacity, and sharing both her joy and her struggles with true transparency. This is going to be a long journey of healing, and anything you can contribute will ensure that Sara can go through this intense process without added financial stress. We are incredibly grateful for the community in Sara's corner.


This fundraiser is organized on behalf of Sara Falaro, by her best friend Elle Rigg & her partner Sumaya Mulla-Carrillo. All contributions will go directly to Sara Falaro.