EPISODE · Mar 11, 2026 · 17 MIN
Laura’s Story: Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma), Surgery, Coma, and Recovery
from Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show · host Claire Bullimore
Laura Earl shares her story of being diagnosed with a vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma) in September 2023, and having it removed in April 2024.Her symptoms weren’t the “typical” ones people associate with brain tumours. Laura’s main signs were imbalance and dizziness — to the point she was even falling off a static bike — and later a small patch of facial numbness. She went to the dentist for a routine check-up, and her dentist referred her for an MRI (initially suspecting a jaw issue). Within days, the MRI revealed a large tumour measuring 3cm x 4cm.Laura met a neurologist soon after. Initially, the recommendation was watch and wait, but as the tumour showed signs of growth, surgery became the best option. Laura was told it was very likely benign, but she understood the risks: she would be deaf on one side (she is now deaf on the right) and there was a possibility of facial palsy (which she does experience).Laura describes the emotional challenge of telling her four children, and how her natural positivity helped her move forward — even questioning later whether she was in denial. In April 2024, she went in for surgery feeling independent and upbeat. It was a 16-hour operation, and the tumour was successfully removed.But soon after, Laura didn’t wake as expected. A CT scan revealed a bilateral stroke / blood clot complication, where blood expanded into the space left by the tumour removal. Laura was in a coma for three and a half weeks, and at the time, she was told she might not survive and might not have quality of life.Laura is now living proof that outcomes can surprise everyone. She shares her long recovery: paralysis, difficulty speaking, rehab at home and in hospital, and rebuilding life step by step with physio, OT, speech and language therapy, and psychology support. She talks openly about facial paralysis, loss of tongue sensation, ataxia and coordination issues, learning to do life differently — and her belief that hope and persistence have been central to her progress.Laura also pays tribute to her husband Daniel, highlighting how often loved ones are overlooked — and why saying thank you matters.⚠️ Content note: This episode includes discussion of stroke, coma, paralysis, brain surgery, and rehabilitation.
What this episode covers
Laura Earl shares her story of being diagnosed with a vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma) in September 2023, and having it removed in April 2024.Her symptoms weren’t the “typical” ones people associate with brain tumours. Laura’s main signs were imbalance and dizziness — to the point she was even falling off a static bike — and later a small patch of facial numbness. She went to the dentist for a routine check-up, and her dentist referred her for an MRI (initially suspecting a jaw issue). Within days, the MRI revealed a large tumour measuring 3cm x 4cm.Laura met a neurologist soon after. Initially, the recommendation was watch and wait, but as the tumour showed signs of growth, surgery became the best option. Laura was told it was very likely benign, but she understood the risks: she would be deaf on one side (she is now deaf on the right) and there was a possibility of facial palsy (which she does experience).Laura describes the emotional challenge of telling her four children, and how her natural positivity helped her move forward — even questioning later whether she was in denial. In April 2024, she went in for surgery feeling independent and upbeat. It was a 16-hour operation, and the tumour was successfully removed.But soon after, Laura didn’t wake as expected. A CT scan revealed a bilateral stroke / blood clot complication, where blood expanded into the space left by the tumour removal. Laura was in a coma for three and a half weeks, and at the time, she was told she might not survive and might not have quality of life.Laura is now living proof that outcomes can surprise everyone. She shares her long recovery: paralysis, difficulty speaking, rehab at home and in hospital, and rebuilding life step by step with physio, OT, speech and language therapy, and psychology support. She talks openly about facial paralysis, loss of tongue sensation, ataxia and coordination issues, learning to do life differently — and her belief that hope and persistence have been central to her progress.Laura also pays tribute to her husband Daniel, highlighting how often loved ones are overlooked — and why saying thank you matters.⚠️ Content note: This episode includes discussion of stroke, coma, paralysis, brain surgery, and rehabilitation.
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Laura’s Story: Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma), Surgery, Coma, and Recovery
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