Help Support Laura's Brain Tumor Battle

I am writing on behalf of my sister, Laura Lair, and her family.

This story is one Laura never thought she would have to tell again. She was diagnosed with a non-cancerous brain tumor that required brain surgery on April 28th. This is the second brain tumor Laura has had in two decades.

Earlier this year, Laura and her family began noticing some changes with her cognitive thinking, balance, and memory. She struggled to recall conversations and information, and she lost her balance often. At the end of April, Laura suffered a fall and was unable to get up on her own. She knew something was seriously wrong and asked a friend to take her to the hospital.

That's when we received the unthinkable news. Laura had a new tumor, located at the top of her brain, causing a buildup of fluid that explained her confusion and imbalance. She was immediately transferred to Abbott Northwestern Hospital, where she spent the weekend preparing for brain surgery. Understandably, Laura, her kids, and the rest of our family were shocked and scared by the news.

On April 28th, Laura underwent an eight-hour craniotomy. Following surgery, she was moved to the ICU, where she was closely monitored for the next six days. She was then transferred to the neurology floor, where she continued receiving care for another week.

During her stay, Laura went through numerous tests, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, etc. She continued to stay positive and strong through it all. Despite all that she faced, Laura stayed optimistic, continuing to wish and pray for others around her.

On May 9th, Laura was moved to Redeemer Rehab where she continued to be cared for and supported while she recuperated and gained strength. She worked tirelessly with PT, OT, and speech therapy. On May 31st, she was discharged and was able to go home with 24/7 care provided by family members.

Since coming home, Laura has made great progress and has remained incredibly positive. With help from her sisters and daughters, Laura continues with her PT, OT, and speech therapy at home. In addition, she is undergoing six weeks of daily radiation therapy in Minneapolis at Abbott Northwestern.

Her strength is growing each day, and we are filled with hope as she begins to recall more memories and improve cognitively. We continue to pray and thank God for Laura’s progress. We are looking forward to her graduating from radiation in a few weeks.

This hasn’t been an easy journey for Laura, and it is unfortunately far from over. Laura has been unable to work since April, resulting in the loss of her monthly income. She is now facing extensive medical bills for her surgery and subsequent treatment. Her previous brain tumor, 15 years ago, ended with a full recovery- the outcome this time remains uncertain-but we continue to pray and are ever hopeful.

If you have ever met Laura, you know that she has a heart of gold and would give the shirt off her back for anyone, including strangers. Her faith has brought her through so many trials, and she continues to lean into that faith. She would never ask for help, but we have taken it upon ourselves to reach out for assistance to ease the financial burden for Laura. Also, knowing she has a supportive community will help her to continue to work hard to overcome this difficult time.

We're asking for support to help ease the financial pressure and allow Laura to focus fully on her healing. Please give if you are so compelled, any amount-large or small-would mean the world to Laura and our family. We are truly grateful for any donation.

In addition, we would ask for continued prayers and positive thoughts for Laura to continue to recover and gain the strength she needs to return to her normal, daily life.