A woman initially seeking treatment for an ear infection was shocked to discover she had a brain tumor during a visit to the emergency room. Ashley Macholz, a 30-year-old adventurer from San Jose, California, who had been enjoying a summer filled with water activities, experienced pain and swelling in her left ear, attributing it to prolonged water exposure. Despite following prescribed medications for weeks without improvement, she eventually sought further evaluation.
Upon visiting the emergency room, Ashley was advised to undergo a CT scan by the same doctor she had seen previously. Reluctant at first, she consented to the scan, which revealed a sizable tumor atop her brain. Subsequent surgery was promptly scheduled to address the six by five by four centimeter mass pressing on her brain.
In a surprising turn of events, Ashley and her fiancé Bryan decided to tie the knot impromptu in the hospital before her surgeries. With the support of family and friends, they orchestrated a makeshift wedding ceremony within the hospital premises. Following a joyous celebration, Ashley was transferred to the University of California, San Francisco for specialized surgical procedures.
Despite facing challenges post-surgery, including temporary hearing loss and facial paralysis, Ashley remained resilient and optimistic. The tumor’s removal brought clarity to her mind and renewed vigor for life. With a strong support system by her side, including social media followers cheering her on, Ashley embarked on her journey to recovery.
After a series of surgeries and a week-long hospital stay, Ashley was discharged and is now recuperating at home in San Jose. While awaiting further test results on her tumor, she is grateful to be tumor-free, married, and surrounded by love as she focuses on her healing process and future with Bryan.