Name: Lisa R., 56 years old

City: Tempe, AZ

Brain Injury: ACOUSTIC NEUROMA, BENIGN BRAIN TUMOR. When I was diagnosed in 2011, I was told “Go directly to St. Joe’s. Do not go home!” I had 3 surgeries to remove the tumor and 8 surgeries due to complications.

Explanation of mask:  The left side of the mask is crying TEARS OF LOSS. They represent the losses I have experienced (such as my balance). The right side represents the gifts I have experienced and they are TEARS OF BLESSINGS. One of the gifts has been the love and support from family and friends. One loss I have regained is being able to drive. The yogi girl on the forehead represents my striving to create balance in my life. The heart at the chin is being grounded in LOVE. By being grounded I can find balance in my life!