Medical treatment for Kathryn Spiars

Hi All,

I am trying to raise funds to help with my cost of treating the large tumor (acoustic neuroma) on my auditory nerve that is pressing against my brain stem. In 2014, I was diagnosed with a neurological condition called Neurofibromatosis (NF2), which produces tumors along nerves. They typically begin on the auditory nerves, and usually cause hearing loss, facial paralysis, and vision problems. My first MRI showed a large tumor on each side of my brain stem. Since then, I have had a very invasive surgery to remove the largest (4 cm) of the tumors. As a result, Ive essentially lost my hearing, have experience paralysis on the left side of my face, and have been learning to communicate using sign language and lip reading. The type of tumor I have usually remains noncancerous, but generally produces severe nerve damage that is sometimes debilitating. My latest MRI showed that my remaining tumor has grown to a size that can be life-threatening. The surgery to remove it would most likely cause paralysis on the other side of my face, impacting my ability to smile, kiss or speak clearly (I can still speak well!) The tumor is too large for radiotherapy. (See the 2019 MRI shown below) The treatment I will be undergoing to stabilize or shrink the remaining tumor will be at the Karlfeldt Clinic in Boise, Idaho. The treatment has proven to be very effective in inhibiting tumors, but it has naturopathic elements to it and is very expensive. The cost of the treatment is approximately $25,000, and my travel and lodging for the 2 weeks in Idaho will be approximately $4000. Any contributions would be very appreciated. Thanks for reading this!