Each year, teams participate in our annual Head for the Cure 5K – St. Louis. Team The Thing has participated in honor of Lisa Joerling who has been battling a brain tumor for the past 6 years. By participating in this event, you are helping fund research and programs to support the brain tumor community. Learn more about The Thing!
6 years ago I was diagnosed with a ganglioglioma, a brain tumor that affects only 1-2% of all brain tumor patients. I had a biopsy and an awake craniotomy to remove the tumor, I lost sensation in my some of my right hand as my tumor was on my motor/sensory strip. I relearned how to use my right hand through occupational therapy and went back to K-State 6 weeks after surgery. I was still able to graduate in 4 years with an elementary education degree.
1 year ago I was told my scan had changed and the tumor is coming back, this also gave me an epilepsy diagnosis I am now trying manage with different medications.
Head for the Cure allows me to raise awareness, funds and hope for survivors like me and their families. The funds raised go directly to organizations that are researching treatments and cures for this disease.