Crystal Tyler-Payne Surgery

Hello, my name is Belinda. I am writing this for my sister Crystal Tyler-Payne. About 10 years ago Crystal discovered a lump on the left side of her neck. She went to her PCP and was told that this was just a swollen lymph node and not to worry about it. About 5 years ago she started developing numbness in the left side of her head. She again, went to her PCP and was told that this was a pinched nerve but not to worry about it. Fast forward to 2023 Crystal discovered a mass in her left breast. She went to her OBGYN and that doctor ordered imaging on that mass. With the urging of her husband, David, she requested that her PCP order imaging of the lump on her neck at the same time. What they discovered were four tumors. Two of these tumors were large enough to cause concern. She underwent a lumpectomy of the tumor in her left breast in June and they discovered that this was just a fibroadenoma (benign non invasive tumor). She was referred to an oncologist for the tumor on her neck. He ordered further testing and imaging. They discovered that this tumor shows characteristics of a rare tumor called a nerve sheath schwanomma. It is derived from the C2 nerve root. If this tumor is indeed a schwanomma it is benign. However, this tumor has grown into her spine and that is cause for concern. If she continues to let this grow it will become fatal. At 5.4 cm it is considered a “giant schwanomma” and it cannot be taken care of with radiation. This must be surgically removed. Crystals oncologist referred her to one of the top neurosurgeons in Atlanta for spinal tumors. Her neurosurgeon agreed that this tumor is invasive and must be removed. Crystals surgery is scheduled for September 26th. The tumor is inside of and outside of her spine at the C1 and C2 (the very top of her spine) Her vertebral artery is resting on top of the tumor. Both of these facts pose great risk with this surgery. However, her neurosurgeon has a solid plan. He will not know until he is in surgery how much of the spine he will need to cut into or how much of the tumor he will be able to remove. If he has to remove too much of the spine he will need to do a spinal fusion. If he cannot remove the entire tumor Crystal will undergo radiation to shrink the remaining tumor. The risks are high with this surgery, but the risks of not doing the surgery are higher.

Anyone who knows Crystal, knows she is incapable of asking for help. However, we have discussed in great detail the strain this has already put on her family. Undoubtedly, there will be further strain during and after her surgery. Their household is sustained on two incomes. Crystal will be out of work for a minimum of eight to twelve weeks. David is taking time off to care for her and their children. I created this GoFundMe in hopes that the Payne family’s community can come together and support my sister and her family in their time of need. Any funds from this will go directly to her for her medical costs, and household bills during her recovery.

Any amount is helpful along with prayers, support, well wishes!