When Gabriela Kellie Joseph, a 31-year-old office manager, suddenly started experiencing seizures, she never imagined that the root cause would be a non-cancerous brain tumour.
Gabriela’s life took an unexpected turn when she experienced her first seizure while at work.
“In 2015, I quickly found a retail job after relocating from Mpumalanga to Johannesburg. One day, I suddenly collapsed at work. When I woke up, my colleagues were around me, visibly concerned and unsure of what happened. I had started shaking uncontrollably before losing consciousness. Following several fainting spells, my dad and I visited the doctor. Scans revealed a benign tumour on my temporal lobe, which was causing my epilepsy,” Gabriela remarks.
“I initially felt lost and in awe upon hearing the diagnosis of a brain tumour. It was an unexpected and overwhelming situation.”
Adjusting to this new reality required significant lifestyle changes, and she realised that facing these challenges head-on was the only way to move forward.
She says she was amazed to learn that the lipoma (the tumour) might have been present since birth, but only became problematic later in life and learning about the complexity of the human body and how such conditions can remain asymptomatic for years was fascinating.
About two years after her diagnosis, Gabriela’s neurologist discussed chemotherapy as a potential treatment. However, since chemotherapy is rarely used for non-cancerous tumours, they opted for steroid injections and drips. This treatment approach lasted for about six months and involved receiving steroid injections followed by a drip containing vitamins and minerals. The drip, according to Gabriela, also included medications to prevent seizures, headaches and nausea. This regimen was maintained for about six months.
“The treatment left me feeling like a walking zombie. I experienced nausea, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. This was particularly difficult because I am usually very energetic. I endured frequent headaches and vomiting. While the lack of energy was challenging, the side effects were not unbearable. I looked pale and unwell but managed to push through,” she says, looking back at her experience with the treatment’s side effects.
Gabriela expressed that she is grateful to her husband and his family, late father, and best friend for being her greatest support system throughout her journey.
“Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. This experience has made me happier, more vibrant, and passionate about life. Where I once feared that a seizure might be my last moment on earth, I now embrace life with greater faith and appreciation,” she elaborates.
Since completing the treatment and making significant lifestyle changes, Gabriela has not experienced any seizures. Her life has improved, and she has even written a children’s book to raise awareness about epilepsy.
“This journey has shown me that I am not a victim. Despite facing additional challenges, including a car accident, I believe that God has a greater purpose for me in helping others overcome their struggles. To those facing similar challenges, I encourage you to look in the mirror and remind yourself of your incredible strength. Although it’s tough, you are chosen to overcome this. You have the strength and resilience to emerge victorious and giving up should not be an option,” Gabriela concludes.
