Belgian Woman’s Decade-Long Battle for Diagnosis Revealed After Brain Tumor Discovery
Mortsel, Belgium – Amalie Kempeneer, 28, is sharing her story after a 16-year struggle to get a diagnosis for what doctors now confirm is a tumor in her brainstem. What began as severe headaches when she was 12 ultimately led to a life-altering discovery, as reported by Nieuwsblad.
Kempeneer’s journey has been marked by years of fighting for answers, and she now faces the reality that the tumor is inoperable. Despite this, her tumor is slow-growing, and after a lengthy process – including a surgical attempt and 30 rounds of radiation – it stopped growing after six months, according to a support campaign launched on behalf of Kempeneer.
The diagnosis echoes a tragic case from last year, that of 5-year-old Neyla from Deurne, who passed away due to an inoperable brain tumor, as detailed in Dans les médias. Kempeneer’s story has drawn parallels to Neyla’s, highlighting the challenges faced by those with rare and difficult-to-treat brain tumors.
The physical toll has been immense. Kempeneer experienced complete paralysis and spent years in hospitals and rehabilitation centers relearning basic functions. She now requires assistance to walk, using a foot splint and walking stick, and braces to support her shoulder, wrist, and foot. She has lost fine motor skills in her left hand and foot, requiring ongoing support. “I am incredibly proud of myself with how far I have come in my illness process, both physically and mentally because this has been an enormously heavy traumatic event with lasting fears and stress due to uncertainties,” she stated in the support campaign.
Doctors have indicated that Kempeneer will have limited function on her left side due to the brain damage she has sustained, experiencing weakness, spasticity, and chronic nerve pain. Despite these challenges, Kempeneer remains optimistic and focuses on helping others, stating, “The best thing I do is listen to people’s stories and give them advice.”
This story underscores the growing awareness surrounding rare neurological conditions and the importance of patient advocacy in navigating complex medical journeys. The campaign aims to support Kempeneer as she continues her treatments and manages the ongoing effects of her condition.
