She Hit Her Head During a Volleyball Game as a Teen. It Led to a Diagnosis That Left Her ‘Completely Deaf’

**31-Year-Old Woman Champions Neurofibromatosis Type 2 Awareness After Life-Altering Diagnosis**

McKinnon Galloway, a 33-year-old advocate from Charlotte, North Carolina, has turned her personal battle with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) into a mission of hope and awareness for others affected by the rare genetic disorder. This comes after she was diagnosed as a teenager following a seemingly innocuous incident during a volleyball match that led to a subsequent MRI scan.

In 2006, at the age of 16, Galloway hit her head while diving for the ball. This minor injury prompted medical investigations that would change her life forever. During the MRI, doctors discovered two tumours pressing against critical nerves in her brain, warning her that she would likely be completely deaf by the end of her high school years. These tumours were a direct result of NF2, a condition characterised by the growth of benign tumours on the cranial and spinal nerves.

As treatment began, Galloway was prescribed medication aimed at slowing tumour growth. However, the effects of the condition forced her through numerous surgeries to manage its progression. By 2022, following multiple interventions, she tragically lost her hearing altogether, marking a significant turning point in her life.

Reflecting on the emotional impact of her diagnosis, Galloway shared that the strain it placed on her family was profound. The stress of her health challenges led to her father developing a drinking problem that ultimately contributed to his death by suicide when she was 25. In the face of these difficulties, Galloway found a pillar of strength in her mother, Tracy, who took on both parental roles and became deeply involved in advocacy work. Tracy eventually took on the position of chair for the Children’s Tumor Foundation, striving to secure funding and research aimed at combatting the disorder.

Galloway’s health crisis reached a critical juncture on New Year’s Day in 2022 while vacationing with her family in Russia. She experienced a sudden and complete loss of hearing, which she initially brushed off as a minor inconvenience. The reality hit when she realised she could no longer hear anyone around her. Although doctors managed to restore some hearing temporarily through medication, complications following a 10-hour brain surgery on 18 March 2022 led to her permanent hearing loss.

Despite these challenges, Galloway has embraced assistive technology, allowing her to communicate effectively and continuing to advocate for awareness of NF2. Her goal is to bring attention to the struggles faced by those with the disorder, particularly children, whom she believes are robbed of a normal childhood due to their medical conditions and frequent hospital visits.

Recently celebrating receiving her first stable scan in four years, Galloway lives with 13 active tumours – six in her spine, three on her hand, and two in both her neck and brain. While she remains optimistic, the spectre of her health issues looms large, and she expresses concern about the uncertainty that lies ahead. “For the worst luck, I have the best luck,” she reflects, noting her resilience in the face of adversity.

Through her advocacy efforts, Galloway aims to shed light on neurofibromatosis type 2, rallying support for research and resources that can improve the lives of those affected. Her journey, marked by difficulty yet underpinned by hope, stands as an inspiring testament to the human spirit’s capacity to thrive even amidst daunting challenges. Her narrative not only highlights the need for greater awareness of NF2 but also serves as a beacon of strength for others navigating similar experiences.

In a world where such rare disorders often go unnoticed, Galloway’s voice is vital in pushing for recognition and advancements in healthcare for those with neurofibromatosis type 2. As she continues to advocate for change, she embodies the resilience and courage that can transform personal pain into a platform for public awareness and systemic improvement within medical research and support structures.