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https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/sarahland~~~
Sarah is a long time local to the Bishop area and is great friends with much of the community. She is a cheerful person with a contagious laugh that will always make you smile. She is an avid rock climber and lover of the outdoors. She has many adventures under her belt with various friends and colleagues.
On Monday August 31st, Sarah became ill and unresponsive in her home. With the help of friends, she was able to get to Northern Inyo Hospital for a CAT scan that showed a large tumor in her brain. Not having the resources to provide the best care, the hospital decided to airlift Sarah to Renown Medical Center in Reno. While in the ICU her mass in the brain shifted and the fluid causing her to become unconscious, drained. Thankfully, on September 2nd in the evening, Sarah regained consciousness. On the evening of September 3rd Sarah underwent a biopsy of her tumor. And after ten days in the hospital, on September 9th, she returned home to Bishop to await results from the tests.
On September 21st, the doctor called to share the news: Sarah has Grade 3 Anaplatic Astrocytoma. This is a moderately aggressive cancer that will require brain surgery followed by chemo and radiation. As terrifying as that sounds, the family is so incredibly grateful that Sarah has been transferred to the care of Dr Berger at UCSF Neurosurgery, who literally pioneered brain mapping techniques and is a true specialist in this area -- the absolute best of the best. On Monday September 28th, Sarah and the family will get to meet Dr Berger (via Zoom) and learn more about what is to come.
It's hard to know how anyone would react to such news, and Sarah is navigating this like she has every other challenge -- fierce and fiery, emotional and sentimental -- always with a sense of zeal and passion, an awareness of the reality, and an appreciation for the beauty around her. She has spent the last week re-gaining her balance, connecting with friends, moving her body, and even going rock climbing! Sarah has such an amazing community (YOU!) surrounding her, and the love that you all share is the most beautiful gift of all. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement.
