Hi, my name is Crystal, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart to share about one of my best friends, Brandy Graham. Brandy was recently diagnosed with an incredibly rare brain tumor called a Chordoma — the chances of developing one are literally one in a million, like her. Over the last 8 years she has become family to me. She shows up for everyone around her, always giving her all, and i want her to feel that same love and support back. She finds peace in the simple parts of life such as her animals, grandchildren, plants and nature . Through all she is going through, she continues to amaze me with her positivity, humor and resilience.

Brandys Chordoma developed in an extremely rare location

— the Meckel’s Cave, a small space in the skull where the trigeminal nerve sits. Her tumor has wrapped itself around the optic nerve and pituitary gland, ate away parts of the surrounding bone, and extended into the sphenoid sinuses.

Because of its location near the brainstem, nerves, and arteries, treatment is very complex and will involve both brain surgery and radiation therapy. Brandy has been experiencing a range of symptoms including severe headaches, dizziness, facial numbness, intermittent hearing loss, migraines, and memory issues.

She’s now facing a long road of preparation, treatment, surgery, and recovery. She’s unable to work during this time. Her first brain surgery is scheduled for November. Unfortunately, chordomas are rare, extremely aggressive and will immediately begin to grow back after removal. Because of all these rarities and unique characteristics Brandy will need lifelong, specialized medical care and ongoing monitoring from a team experienced with this rare condition.

We’re reaching out for support to help cover the medical expenses that insurance doesn’t take care of. These include costs from seeing out-of-network specialists, medical transportation back and forth to Philadelphia, and housing while receiving care there. Every contribution, no matter the amount, helps lighten the load and means more than we can say.

We know that not everyone is in a place to give financially, and that’s okay. Your love, prayers, meditations, and the healing light you send for our girl is just as important ! Every intention set and sent her way is felt deeply. Every bit of love and light makes a difference!

Thank you for being part of Brandys Army with us!