In 2018 a single mom attributed forgetfulness to menopause before scans revealed a slow growing brain tumor Her story highlights the challenges of diagnosis treatment motherhood and raising awareness .
Moms Memory Lapse Menopause or Something More
In 2018 April Tate a 52 year old single mother from Fife Scotland noticed a troubling memory lapse while working in childcare—she forgot the name of a child under her care Initially she blamed it on menopause related brain fog a common symptom linked to declining estrogen levels However when she mentioned this to her doctor he urged her to undergo immediate medical evaluation .
Shocking Diagnosis Posterior Falcine Meningioma
Medical scans revealed a non cancerous but deeply situated tumor known as a posterior falcine meningioma Located in a critical region of the brain responsible for coordination and vital bodily functions the tumor was deemed inoperable April recalls the moment of diagnosis as numbing confessing .
Also Read : Kelly Clarkson’s Rug Brightens Up Rooms & Hides Dirt from Just $21
All I could think about was not being there for her—her teenage daughter Abby
Living With Uncertainty Treatment and Timing
Doctors initially recommended a watch and wait approach regularly monitoring the tumors size For several years it remained stable though the emotional toll of living with an unknown health threat weighed heavily on April In late 2022 the tumor began to grow prompting daily radiation therapy .
Each treatment session was brief but required April to wear a custom fitted mask to immobilize her head—a claustrophobic and emotionally taxing experience Despite the uncertainty follow up scans later confirmed the radiation had successfully stopped the tumors growth .
Resilience Recovery and Advocacy
Despite the physical and emotional challenges April returned to work and gradually rebuilt her strength even completing a 5K run in 2025 Now she is channeling her energy into fundraising efforts to support brain tumor research highlighting the significant lack of funding for this condition She reflects .
What shocks me most is how little funding goes into researching brain tumors
April remains candid about the ongoing emotional impact Although fortunate the tumor isnt malignant she faces continued medical scans and unresolved questions about her future including personal relationships .
Forgetfulness and Menopause A Cautionary Note
Aprils story sheds light on a common issue many menopausal women report memory problems or brain fog linked to declining estrogen levels Research estimates that 44–62 of women in perimenopause experience subjective cognitive decline including forgetfulness and slower thinking While typical these symptoms should never be ignored especially if they develop suddenly or severely .
Early Detection Can Save Lives
Aprils experience underscores the critical importance of taking cognitive symptoms seriously even when they seem related to menopause Timely medical evaluation including neurological scans can reveal hidden health conditions In Aprils case early intervention likely preserved both her health and her ability to care for her daughter .
Key Takeaways
- Sudden or severe memory changes should not be dismissed as just menopause .
- Single mothers especially self employed caregivers may face added stress and financial strain during health crises .
- Watch and wait treatment protocols can be effective when surgery is not an option .
- Recovery can lead to a return to normal life including achieving personal goals such as running a 5K .
- Personal stories like Aprils help raise awareness of underfunded health issues such as brain tumors .
April Tates journey—from attributing her memory lapses to menopause to confronting a brain tumor diagnosis and recommitting to her daughter—serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiring story of resilience It reminds us that when in doubt seeking help and asking the right questions can save a life .