UPDATE ON PAIGE HOLT's FIGHT WITH BRAIN CANCER

On July 18th Paige Holt underwent emergency surgery for a glioblastoma, a malignant brain tumor. It was her 43rd birthday.

Paige was taken to ER at Marin Health Medical Center (MHMC) after her life partner Chris observed noticeable changes in her behavior and speech, complaints of headaches and forgetfulness. A CT scan and MRI revealed a mass that warranted admission to the hospital. Surgery was set for a few days later at the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center; however, before the scheduled time, Paige suffered a stroke and was placed on life support. The neurosurgical team came to Marin to perform emergency surgery, as transporting her would be too dangerous.

After 9 hours of surgery, 80% of the 7 cm. tumor (size of an orange) was removed. The remaining portion was too close to areas of the brain that would further impair her ability to function. Her neurosurgeon from UCSF said it was one of the most aggressive glioblastomas he had ever seen and rare at her age.

Since the surgery, Paige has begun to make some progress but she has a long road ahead. After 29 days in the hospital she was moved to a skilled nursing center for an indefinite amount of time for daily nursing care while receiving radiation and chemotherapy, essential for slowing down the tumor growth. She’ll also get PT, occupational and speech therapy.

She was terminated from her job because she began making frequent mistakes due to the unknown tumor compromising her ability to function. Her health insurance through Medicaid is limited. She has applied for disability to pay rent and utilities because having a home to return to is essential.

Anyone who has met Paige knows she has a quick wit and is fiercely independent. A devoted single mother who has raised her 20 year old son in N. CA., working in local restaurants as a bartender and server. She loved the one-on-one contact with her customers, and they loved her back.

Our geographically scattered family has been traveling to be with Paige and her son, Pace. Her mother and stepfather, Pam and Rich Johnson, are going back and forth from New Jersey (where Paige grew up), as well as her brothers - Sean Holt in Montana, Ryan & Tara Robinson Holt in Vermont. Most recently, her two young nieces came from Vermont to visit “Auntie Paige “. Her many friends have been extraordinarily supportive and instrumental in boosting her spirits, as she has always been a loyal friend to each of them.

Paige is facing unexpected catastrophic expenses in the coming months that won’t be covered by her insurance. The family is asking for any assistance you can provide to help defray her out of pocket medical expenses, a difficult ask at any time and especially now. Please donate any amount you feel is appropriate through the link provided. Paige’s family is deeply grateful for your support, thoughts, generosity and understanding during this unimaginable time. Thank you for reading Paige’s story.