Marissa Wells Tumor (Acoustic Neuroma)

It is rare that I have had the joy of knowing a young woman like Marissa. She has been an integral part of my life for about 10 years. She has been my hairdresser for almost that long. Marissa has been more than just that. She is family. She is a sister to my daughter and like a daughter to me. When I first met her, I knew that she would be forever a part of my life and my family's life.  She is a gentle soul with a zeal for living the best life she can live. Marissa became a single mother 3 years ago to a beautiful girl and this has only made her a better person. With that said, as a single mother, she works hard to take care of what is hers.  However, she is also a true giver.  She will give anyone the shirt off her back, her time, her friendship and (of course) good hair.  Her charm is contagious and you leave her chair at the salon feeling special. Sadly, Marissa has been diagnosed with Acoustic Neuroma. I am quoting her Aunt Kelly who is in the medical field almost verbatim ..This tumor is typically not cancerous,however, the size and location of this tumor is causing mass effect on the cerebellum causing symptoms and health risks requiring it to come out ASAP.  Step further .. this tumor, let’s call it "Chewy" (because if we are going to talk about it ... he needs a name). So "Chewy" is pressing against Crania Nerves 5-8.  "Chewy" can affect hearing, balance and facial nerves.  "Chewy" was discovered when Marissa felt numbness in her face and some hearing loss.   She needs to have surgery to remove this mass tumor or it can affect her work, her role as a mother and just with being able to function on a daily basis.   The surgery that will  remove "Chewy" which will, in turn, remove any symptoms, gets tricky. The recommended method of removal is through the skull and not the ear canal thus causing manipulation of her brain. That is scary in itself because the brain is sensitive to any manipulation. However, this method will cause swelling of the brain putting her at risk for seizures immediately after the surgery requiring her to be in the ICU for a minimum of 3 days and then inpatient on a Neurology floor for another 2 days. Also she will require 24/7 care for the following 9 days. Then she cannot work after that for 4 more weeks making her time off from work a minimum of 6 weeks.  That is just the minimum. Fortunately, Marissa has insurance that will pay for this procedure, but the out-of-pocket is $7,400. Not to mention, the amount of money that it will take for her cost of living during her recovery.  This adds up very fast. In fact, she needs $300 for an MRI this Monday.  The goal is to raise $20,000.  Those of you that know Marissa understands that it is hard for her to ask for assistance for anything.  She loves her independence and is respected for it.  So, I am asking for her. First, I am asking for positive thoughts, prayers and faith.  Because every little bit matters .. for her, for her daughter and for her livelihood. Then think of what you can give along with those positive thoughts or prayers.  Maybe you can give up a couple days of Starbucks, 24 pack of cokes or the daily energy drink for a couple days and donate those proceeds to this cause. You will feel better and she will definitely be better because of it.  Ya'll,  I love this young lady and her daughter so I will be giving whatever I can to help her to get rid of "Chewy".  I wish I could give the whole $20,000.  But I believe in you all! So, unite with me and her family in reaching this goal to rid Marissa of "Chewy" .. thank you any and all who will help in any way you can!