As her mother’s meningioma became increasingly aggressive, Emily carried the weight of every decision alone—until Brain Tumor Network stepped in. With a navigator guiding medical details, practical tasks, and emotional strain, she found clarity and steady support through her mother’s final chapter.
When Emily’s mother began treatment for a recurrent, aggressive meningioma, a hospital social worker encouraged her to reach out to Brain Tumor Network. It was the first time Emily and her mother had spoken openly with anyone about what they were facing, and the suggestion came at a moment when the caregiving load felt unbearably heavy.
When Emily connected with BTN, she was introduced to her navigator, Sarah. From the very first call, the calm, steady way Sarah listened made her feel less alone. Emily shared her mother’s history of multiple surgeries, worsening pathology, and the increasing responsibilities she carried as her full-time caregiver. Sarah understood the weight of those decisions and the emotional strain of watching a loved one decline.
Her navigator became a consistent source of guidance. She helped Emily sort through medical information, legal documents, and practical tasks that had felt impossible to manage on her own. She checked in regularly, offered space to talk through difficult moments, and provided clarity during each stage of her mother’s illness. For the first time, Emily had someone she could rely on who understood both the medical and emotional sides of caregiving.
I don’t think I could have gotten through this without my BTN navigator’s advice or help. It was a consistent, reliable source with no judgment.
As her mother’s tumor progressed from a grade I to a rare and aggressive grade III, the family ultimately chose hospice. BTN remained a steady presence while Emily cared for her mother at home through the final weeks. Sarah offered reassurance, thoughtful guidance, and a place to bring questions as Emily navigated each day.
Emily’s mother passed away in November 2025 after a long and courageous fight. Looking back, Emily credits Brain Tumor Network with helping her stay grounded and informed during the most difficult chapter of her life. The support she received gave her strength, direction, and the reassurance that she didn’t have to carry the burden alone.
