Dear Friend,

I never imagined my life would take a dramatic turn as the result of an acoustic neuroma. Prior to my diagnosis, I realized I could not hear people approach me. I assumed my office phone was not working properly. Eventually, tinnitus became a concern. I attributed this to my blood pressure. Dizziness, I told myself, was the result of fatigue.

I finally visited my doctor to get to the root of my issues. “Maybe,” I thought to myself, “it’s just an ear problem?”

It was not.

As a registered nurse for 33 years, I am used to caring for people and solving their medical problems. I never thought I would be in a situation where I would have my own medical problem to solve. Like every good nurse, I began research to learn as much as I could about my tumor and found the Acoustic Neuroma Association in the process.  I started reading….and reading…and reading until my husband told me to stop! 

My medical team recommended observation…more words I was not expecting.  Without knowing anyone who could relate, the news left me feeling alone. I returned to the Acoustic Neuroma Association to read more about the tumor and signed up for webinars to educate myself on my new condition. The closest support group near me was located in New Hampshire, and I reached out to the leader to talk. She was so welcoming and understood what I was going through. She invited me to their next meeting where I listened to the guest speaker who made me feel comfortable and at ease. I met some wonderful, supportive people who helped guide me though this new journey in my life.

I no longer felt alone.

I know many of you agree that being diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma can be an isolating experience. Family and friends may not understand what you are going through. You may not fully understand what you are going through. The knowledge I have gained and people I have met through the Acoustic Neuroma Association have prepared me for the next step in my acoustic neuroma journey - a second opinion.  I don’t know what the future has in store for me, but I do know the future would be much different without the Acoustic Neuroma Association.

This spring, I invite you to join me in making a contribution to the Acoustic Neuroma Association so that this wonderful organization remains a viable resource for all who have been impacted by an acoustic neuroma… and all who will be.

With appreciation,
Jane Rioux 
Fort Kent, ME
Spring 2019 Campaign Chair