Hi, I’m Lily — I’m 33, a mom of four amazing kids, and married to a hardworking blue-collar man who’s been my rock. In 2020, I started a wellness journey that truly transformed my life. Fitness helped me find strength I didn’t know I had — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
But earlier this year, everything shifted. I had a sudden seizure at the gym, and after a series of tests, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor — an acoustic neuroma on the left side of my brain. I’ve since nicknamed her Tina (because calling it a tumor just felt too heavy). Due to its size, surgery is the only option.
Not long after my diagnosis, something else happened — something even more life-changing. I came back to God. I rededicated my life to Him and got baptized this year. I truly believe His timing is never accidental. Even in the middle of fear and uncertainty, I’ve felt His peace guiding me every step of the way.
Since finding out about Tina, I’ve been placed on strict restrictions: I can’t drive, I can’t lift over 10 pounds, and I tire easily doing simple tasks. As a mom of four (ranging from elementary to high school), it’s been incredibly hard not being able to do the day-to-day things that once felt normal. I rely heavily on family just to get to work or get my kids to and from school.
I’ve also had to step away from the gym — which was not only my physical outlet, but a way I coped with stress and anxiety. As a massage therapist, I’ve had to limit my availability and take on fewer clients, which has made it difficult to keep up financially.
Surgery is fast approaching. I’ve been told I’ll need at least 2–3 months of recovery. I will lose hearing in my left ear, and most likely need physical rehab — though we won’t know how much support I’ll need until after surgery.
This fundraiser will help with medical bills, monthly expenses while I’m unable to work, and the rehab that comes next. I’ve learned to trust God more deeply through this — and while this season hasn’t been easy, I believe He’s working through it all.
If you feel led to give or even just share, I’m incredibly grateful. Every prayer, every bit of support — it means more than words can say. Thank you for walking with me through this chapter.
