Starting June of 2025 with migraines and what was thought to be vertigo episodes with intense sinus issues. Progressively got worse and in December 2025 a CT was done which was normal but the onset of blurred vision was a big change.
In January, went to get a routine eye exam just to make sure and ended up with progressive glasses to help with the blurred vision and seemed to be okay then got worse by March. Returned to the eye doctor with blurry and double vision. Was referred at that time to an ophthalmologist who ordered an MRI which showed what was thought to be a stroke. Was referred to neurology to do a stroke workup. Given my age and no previous issues they sent me to cardiology for eval and also wanted to pursue neuroimmunology referral to rule out auto immune issues. CTs were ordered of my arteries and no blockages found. At that time the spot measured 7mm. Located at the brainstem where it meets the spinal cord in the right 4th ventricle. It was rotated that I had a mild facial droop at that time which was in May. Personally did not notice a droop at the time. My mother had bells palsy so it does run in the family.
Fast forward I had worn the cardiac monitor for 4 weeks and was scheduled to get results of that on Aug 4 along with an echo of my heart. On July 24 I noticed when I talked my right side felt off. It was noted when speaking others also noticed it. On July 28 I reached out to my PCP and was hoping to get some medicine for sinuses as otc was not working and the congestion was horrible. Also let her know my balance was off more and the new facial drooping. Specifically noticed when i smiled or spoke. I also had some slurred speech. She advised me to go to the ER asap and so I did. So after a CT scan was done it showed the previous spot was now 13mm and they wanted to admit me to be evaluated by neurology. Neuro was unavailable and would have to be transfered. Second MRI of brain was done and consistent with the newest CT showed enlarging spot now confirmed to be a mass. Transferred to Chapel Hill and spent 4 days in the hospital. MRI of spine was normal no lesions there. Lumbar puncture was completed and small amount of fluid was tested in hopes to see what type of tumor. However, those were not definitive. Next step is a biopsy which is now scheduled for August 26. Chapel Hill is 2 hours away from home. We will be headed there on the 25th to stay and as of now I anticipate at least being there the remainder of that week. My boyfriend will be out of work when I am in the hospital at least a few days and I am sure I will need assistance once I am home recovering.
Setting this fund up in hopes to alleviate some of the financial burden that we will incur. We all know bills continue on even when we are misplaced. Want to make sure we have what is needed when we get back home as well. I have a 7yr old and he has a 6 and 7yr old as well so any little bit helps. No amount is too small and I greatly appreciate any and all help we have received and will receive. Even if it is just a prayer. I greatly appreciate it.
I also have a cash app ($MelRouse0929) and PayPal (@melissarouse93) for those who prefer that.
