In this heartfelt episode of Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show, Sarah Kelly shares her powerful journey navigating life with an Anaplastic Astrocytoma, a grade III brain cancer. Diagnosed in 2021 during Melbourne’s lockdown, Sarah reflects on the physical, emotional, and spiritual hurdles she overcame. From symptoms like hand weakness to the challenges of brain surgery and chemotherapy, her resilience shines through. She shares her turning point at a unique retreat, adopting the ketogenic diet, and finding renewed health. This inspiring story highlights the importance of community, faith, and integrative approaches to healing.
“The ketogenic diet has been life-changing,” Sarah says.
Sarah’s Anaplastic Astrocytoma Story
From Diagnosis to Hope: Sarah Kelly’s Journey with Anaplastic Astrocytoma
When Sarah Kelly, a Melbourne-based mother and marketing professional, first noticed weakness in her left hand, she attributed it to repetitive strain or arthritis. However, as her symptoms progressed to include facial drooping and coordination issues, she knew something was seriously wrong. An MRI confirmed the unthinkable: Sarah had a grade III brain tumour called Anaplastic Astrocytoma.
Her world turned upside down. The diagnosis came during Melbourne’s lockdown, intensifying the challenges as Sarah faced life-altering surgery and grueling treatments without the comfort of her family by her side. Despite these hardships, Sarah’s faith became her anchor. “I just felt like it wasn’t my time,” she recalls, finding strength to navigate the unknown.
The Journey Through Treatment
Sarah’s recovery from brain surgery showcased her resilience. The use of cutting-edge neurostimulation therapies helped restore functionality to her left hand, which had become claw-like. Even after rigorous occupational therapy, Sarah continued to struggle with foot drop and other physical limitations but remained determined to regain her independence.
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy were both life-saving and life-altering. While radiotherapy was manageable, chemotherapy drained her energy, leaving her bedridden for weeks at a time. For Sarah, the hardest part was missing out on her young daughter’s milestones. “I felt like I lost a year of her life,” she shares, reflecting on the emotional toll.
A Turning Point: The Health Retreat
A pivotal moment came when Sarah attended a health retreat in Byron Bay. Funded by her supportive community, the 10-day program introduced her to the ketogenic diet, which has since dramatically improved her quality of life. Sarah credits the diet with ending her seizures, enabling her to reclaim her independence and enjoy meaningful time with her family again.
Find Sarah on
Instagram: @sarahs_hope_
Facebook: Sarah’s Hope
