A Tyler, Tx artist, mother, wife, and friend has her community rallying behind her in her fight against oligodendroglioma, a primary central nervous system cancer. According to the Tyler Morning Telegraph, Sarah Breedlove was diagnosed with this rare cancer near the start of 2018. Although the diagnosis itself took place in 2018, Sarah had been experiencing symptoms related to her cancer for years: intense migraines and body weakness on one side of the body. It wasn’t until she began having a seizure that a mass was discovered.

Since her diagnosis, Sarah’s community has been working hard to support her in her journey. When she was diagnosed, Sarah did not have health insurance; her family and friends helped raise the money to fund her surgical procedure. She is currently working to fund alternative treatments in Dallas, Texas, which she says have been working so far.

To help with the financial burden, her community decided to hold a fundraiser in her honor. You see, Sarah is a passionate artist – so her Tyler community wondered what they could do to incorporate art into this process. “Artists for Sarah” was born. This event, which took place a few weeks ago on November 9 at True Vine Brewing Company, saw over thirty different artists and businesses contribute to the cause for a silent auction. Additionally, there were other opportunities to donate to Sarah’s journey on the way. Any money raised has, and will, help Sarah and her family as they continue to pursue treatment options.

Oligodendroglioma

Oligodendroglioma is a rare tumor that forms in either the brain or spinal cord. The tumor gets its name from the cells it forms on: oligodendrocytes, which usually play a role in protecting nerve cells. While doctors are unsure of what causes oligodendrogliomas to form, radiation exposure and genetic mutations may play a role. These tumors may spread but rarely spread outside of the central nervous system. People of any age may develop an oligodendroglioma, though the tumors are most common in adults between ages 35-44. Symptoms include:

• Memory problems
• Difficulty thinking
• Balance and movement problems
• Headaches
• Language difficulty
• Weakness and numbness (particularly on one side of the body)
• Seizures
• Disability in parts of the body controlled by the affected brain/spinal cord

Learn more about oligodendroglioma.