Every day, 27 Canadians are diagnosed with a brain tumour. Emily King was one of them. After surgery and radiation, Emily found the support of the Brain Tumour Foundation and felt compelled to help this organization that has supported so many Canadian families. This is her Fundraising story.

On September 11, 2013, my life changed forever. I was diagnosed with a Meningioma, a brain tumor located on the left temporal region of my head. Normally brain tumours are discovered from headaches or strokes, but I discovered mine due to loss of hearing in my left ear.  Although benign, my tumour was extremely aggressive, resembling a cancerous tumour, and the growth affected my jaw joint in addition to damaging my hearing.  I was only 18.

Almost immediately, I underwent extensive brain surgery to resect approximately 95% of my tumor.  It was too dangerous to remove the whole mass, which meant I also had to undergo 30 sessions of radiation treatment. These treatments are terribly exhausting and taxing on the body. I was unable to work, exercise and do much of what I loved for more than four months, which, since I had been so used to being constantly engaged in activity, felt like a lifetime. My treatments brought a wave of restrictions over my life and it was hard to accept.

The Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada got me through. My wonderful aunt introduced me to this organization that offers much needed support to those diagnosed with brain tumors and their families. My family found the resources on their website incredibly helpful during my treatments, and I found an extension of my support system in this organization. Through volunteering, I discovered all the services they provide, including opportunities for families to connect with professionals and other families for advice and support. As I continue my recovery, which involves regular screening for new tumour growths, I still rely on the support of the Brain Tumour Foundation community.

I wanted to show them my gratitude by contributing to their mission and initiating a fundraiser.  The fundraising platform on the CanadaHelps website made it easy for me to pursue and achieve my goal. With the tools provided by CanadaHelps, complemented by my persistence and determination, I was able to spread awareness to everyone I know. I successfully raised nearly $4000 for the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, half of which was collected through my CanadaHelps Fundraising Page. Most importantly, it gave me a chance to accomplish something even when I felt helpless from what had transpired in my life. My fundraiser was an amazing way to turn my struggle into strength and I believe it truly helped my healing process.

To learn more about Emily’s Fundraising efforts, please visit her CanadaHelps Fundraising Page.

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The Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada is a dedicated team of volunteers, patients, survivors, family members, health care professional and staff who are determined to make the journey with a brain tumour one full of hope and support. They work collaboratively to serve the needs of those Canadians affected by all types of brain tumours.

To learn more about the organization, please visit their charity profile page>>>

Updated on October 31, 2024