Name
Sahaja Azure-van Loon

Brain Tumor Type
Craniopharyngioma

Date of Diagnosis
Feb 2020

Participant Group
Brain Tumor Survivor / 13 - 20 Years of age

Category
Performing Arts

Artist Statement (include type of art, techniques & materials used, what it means to you)
This is me playing piano, a song I’m currently working on. I’ve been playing piano since I was about 8 years old. I feel this is one of my best pieces, and look forward to recording it in a studio soon. Piano helps me feel connected to my spirit and I think it brings people together. I hope I can inspire someone else who’s going through a brain tumor experience to try and express themselves through music.

Artist Bio: Tell Us Your Story
When I was 9 I began having seizures and headaches over a month it got worse and worse. When I went to the hospital we found out I had a brain tumor called craniopharyngioma. After that I had surgery and was in the hospital for about a month. I had to start taking pills daily. After recovering I still had to take lots of medication.
I had to have another surgery when my tumor cyst filled up. I had to have a tube implanted incase my tumor fills with liquid. Then we had to travel for me to have radiation therapy. Since then it’s been looking really good. I still have to take frequent blood draws and MRIs.
Now I take one medication for my thyroid daily. I’m currently taking HGH because my brain stopped making it naturally. I’ve grown about 5 inches in just over a year! Next I’ll be checking with my endocrinologist to discuss taking an injection to start puberty, because I may not naturally have the hormones needed. I’m believing I do have them and I won’t have to take more injections!
Other than my crazy medical history, I’m starting high school in august. I’m a musician and artist and avid reader. I’ve been greatly enjoying performing as lead roles in my school plays. I love Chess and Magic the Gathering and any kind of strategy game. I am annoyed that my brain had a tumor but I’ll say I’m proud of my brain for being so resilient.