03/14/2026
From Childhood Diagnosis to Walking Down the Aisle: Meet Becca đź’Ť
In 2003, at just 11 years old, Becca began experiencing severe back pain and unexplained weight loss. What followed was a life-changing diagnosis: oligodendroglioma — a slow-growing tumor located in the spinal cord. After an eight-hour surgery, doctors were able to remove a large portion of the tumor, though some remained. For more than two decades following this surgery, life moved forward…
Then, 21 years later, just three weeks before her wedding, symptoms returned. While coaching tennis, Becca began experiencing muscle spasms, balance issues, and a troubling loss of sensation in her legs. Another surgery became necessary to remove several syrinxes and carefully take out a small portion of the deeply embedded tumor. Analysis of the tumor revealed a diagnosis of leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor — a rare form of central nervous system (CNS) cancer. Radiation therapy was initially planned, but thanks to a recently approved targeted treatment, her care team was able to pursue a more precise approach!
One radiologist noted that her MRI scans often resemble those of someone who is bedridden. But Becca’s reality tells a different story. Today, she is walking, teaching full time, and even playing pickleball. While she still experiences leg weakness, her determination — and her faith — keep her moving forward! 💪🏼
Through the Young Adult Program, Becca was able to find community. đź«‚ Despite having an uncommon diagnosis, she found connection with others navigating cancer at a young and unexpected stage of life.
Before her second surgery, Becca made a promise to her surgeon: no matter what happened, she would walk down the aisle to marry her husband.
And we are proud to share she did just that 🩵
Give some love to Becca and let’s celebrate her incredible determination in the comments! ⬇️ We are honored to be a part of your journey and help patients just like Becca find community!
