Sara’s Story

Site created on March 1, 2019

Sara lives, laughs and loves with a silent partner - a meningioma tumor in the sagittal vein of her brain. It sits like a glove across the top of her brain dipping into the sagittal vein between the two hemispheres.  She is an inspiration of strength and courage!  She was diagnosed in 2003 at the age of 28 with a pituitary gland tumor and a meningioma tumor.  The pituitary gland tumor was successfully removed while the meningioma tumor had likely grown up with her and was deemed inoperable.  After healing from the initial surgery, she later received a shunt to aid in the flow of spinal fluid, a Chiari malformation surgery to remove a piece of the base of her skull (to give her more space for the crowding) and traditional radiation to slow the growth of the tumor.  All of the above happened while she raised two young little boys.   Needless to say, her friends and family have been so proud of her physical strength and so comforted by her living faith.   
Throughout the past 2 years, Sara has experienced strokes, absence seizures, consistent migraines and progressive weakness on her right side.  It is the opinion of her oncologist and her neurosurgeon that it is time to begin treatment on the tumor's new growth that extends down the front, right side of her brain.  New technology and advancements over the past 15 years have made it possible for her doctors to suggest these treatments.  We are all beyond blessed that there are more options to improve her quality of life!!!

Newest Update

July 16, 2019

Journal entry by Sara Anliker —

It has been a full 4 months since I have had my surgery to remove the tumor.  I have gained strength and have enjoyed the benefits of very few headaches!  It has been quite the adjustment to going from daily headaches and pain to being able to work in my garden, sew and mow the lawn along with many other household chores I hadn't been able to do in years.  

I received my schedule today for my radiation treatments.  It has tried my patience greatly to wait and see what it would be.  All in God's timing though, right?  I will begin tomorrow traveling daily, Monday - Friday, to receive 30 days of treatment in Peoria.  It will take approximately 3 hours a day (including travel time).  I just pray for strength and ability to be able to endure. 

A dear friend gave me a photo that hangs on my wall that reminds me... Faith is risking what is for what is yet to be.  It is taking small steps knowing they lead to bigger ones.  Faith is looking beyond what is and trusting what will be!  
Read More of the journal titled "July 16, 2019"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Sara Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation powers a page like Sara's for two weeks.

If you donate by May 12, your gift will be doubled, up to $10,000, thanks to a gift from Living Water Foundation.

Leave a comment of support for Sara

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top