Brooke Laho

November 1st, 2017
After noticing vision changes that would not go away, Brooke consulted an eye doctor who referred her for an MRI later that evening. Once the results were read, she received a call from the hospital informing that she has bleeding on the brain and must go to Abbot hospital immediately.  After careful examination at Abbot, we soon found out that she has a bleeding cavernous angioma in her brain stem. Due to the vital area of the brain stem, they felt that it is better to wait to see what happens in hopes the bleeding would stop. Brooke remained stable and was discharged home a few days later with a walker and was encouraged to go to the University of Minnesota hospital should anything further happen. A referral was also made to see and follow-up with Dr. Tummala at the U of M.


Symptoms continued to get worse with facial motor function, as well as hearing and balance losses. With that and the unknown in mind, Brooke then went to the U of M emergency room on Monday, November 6th. She was so relieved to finally find some answers to what can be done. 


We were able to meet and discuss with Dr. Tummala. He again explained how much of a vital area of the brain this is and that there are risks involved in this type of surgery, however, it was a "doable" surgery. He spoke that twenty years ago, this was an inoperable situation. We were happy to hear he has had many successful similar surgeries. He also spoke about how Brooke's youth and positive attitude would contribute to a better outcome. 
She was then discharged home on Wednesday, November 8th with a plan for surgery on Monday, November 13th.


We feel fortunate to have had this time to gather with family and friends as well as to ponder the most important matters in life.