Support Candice's Emergency Brain Surgery & Ongoing Care

In April, Candice was admitted to the ER after being unable to walk and use her hand, in addition to many other symptoms she'd been experiencing (dizziness, indigestion, tension, neck pain). CT scans and MRIs revealed a large brain mass measuring 5 x 3.8 x 3.4 cm, resulting in severe compression against her cerebellum, requiring an immediate life-saving craniotomy. The tumor and cyst had created a blockage of spinal fluid, preventing it from recirculating. The blockage resulted in a build-up of fluid and pressure around her entire brain.

For over two years, Candice has struggled with personality/identity issues, emotional regulation, short-term memory and recall issues, tension headaches, a decline in motivation and creativity, vertigo, motion sickness, and a significant decrease in energy levels. She discussed these symptoms over the past two years with several professionals, and all fingers pointed back to anxiety and work-related stress causing depression.

She and her husband face significant financial hardship with an emergency brain surgery, costly medical appointments, and rehabilitation. Recently, Candice and many of her colleagues were laid off to no fault of their own after the company she worked for was acquired. They've relied on and depleted much of their savings as she freelanced and interviewed, trying to secure long-term employment.

Now at home recovering from the 7-hour surgery and in a walker, she is beginning her long journey for rehabilitation to regain mobility and independence to walk on her own. She is working with multiple in-home therapists to help restore eye-hand coordination and full use of her left hand.

By occupation, Candice has dedicated almost 20 years of her career to being a professional art director and designer. Occupational and physical therapy are key factors in her returning to her profession. Her left-hand usage and hand-eye coordination are paramount to performing creative tasks under pressure.

While life has certainly thrown her a huge curve ball, everyone knows one thing about Candice: her strength, determination, and beautiful spirit are unmatched.

Depending on upcoming test results, her medical team is doing everything to determine the cause and, ultimately, a lifelong treatment plan. We'll post updates and progress reports on Candice's health journey. Thank you for joining in and sharing Candice's story. Any help, large or small, is accepted with total gratitude and appreciation.