Support Margaret as she recovers from her 2nd Brain Surgery

Introduction

Hi everyone, my name is Melanie MacDonald, and I am creating this GoFundMe to support my younger sister Margaret as she approaches her 2nd round of brain surgery. I’m doing this in hopes to alleviate any financial stress during her recovery in the upcoming months ahead.

Backstory

In September 2023, Margaret was diagnosed with a Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma) brain tumor, roughly the size of a golf ball. Prior to that, she struggled with nerve issues, excruciating migraines and pain. Some shadowing was discovered via CT scan, and it was later that day she was called down to the QEII for an MRI where it was confirmed, a tumour was pressing against her brain stem causing a CSF buildup. She was then scheduled for immediate surgery that week. The procedure lasted 17 hours straight, removing the majority of the tumor. Unfortunately, the surgery resulted in some facial paralysis, and permanent hearing loss in her right ear. Over a week recovering in the hospital, Margaret persevered unlike anyone I’ve ever seen. She pushed through and worked hard to regain back nerve loss she encountered after the surgery. During that time, we had incredible help from our family, friends and community. Margaret was loved and supported, and our family will be forever grateful for that.

2nd Round

Due to the tumors size and location, a second 17+ hour surgery is required to remove the rest of its remains. After that, she will undergo radiation therapy to finally eradicate it.

How the Funds will be Used

These funds will go towards covering expenses and anything else she may need during her recovery. She’s currently studying to become a Registered Nurse, so helping her with some bills will give her some relief as she approaches her second year ahead. This will give her some piece of mind so she can focus solely on recovering.

Summary

Margaret is the strongest, most inspiring person I know and will always know. We want to help her as much as we can because she’s a person worth supporting. Going through all that struggle, then getting right back up again to pursue a future where she can help and inspire others, as they have been to her. Please help us to ensure Margaret has every opportunity to make her dreams for her future possible.

If you’re not able to donate please share this campaign with your networks - your support, in any form, means the world to us.

And thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your thoughts, prayers, and generosity.