 |
Teresita BrionesFilipino Elderly Woman With Huge Tumor On Her Face
Country:
 Philippines |
Content:
- A Life Burdened by a Gigantic Facial Tumor
- The Fear of Surgery
- A Plea for Assistance
- The Nature of Benign Tumors
- Hope Amidst the Hardship
A Life Burdened by a Gigantic Facial Tumor
A Terrifying GrowthAt the age of 79, Teresita Briones has endured a 17-year-long nightmare. A small bump on her right cheek, initially dismissed as a minor skin growth, has transformed into a massive tumor the size of a bucket. Weighing heavily on her face, the growth causes constant discomfort and hinders her nightly rest.
The Fear of Surgery
Despite the debilitating effects of the tumor, Briones is terrified of undergoing surgery. Her advanced age has left her fearful of not waking up from the procedure. Local doctors have suggested she seeks treatment in Manila, known for its advanced medical facilities. However, the cost of travel and medical expenses is beyond her means.
A Plea for Assistance
While Briones has received support from local residents, she relies heavily on her daughter, who earns a meager income of around $4 per day. Desperate for medical attention, Briones occasionally resorts to begging.
The Nature of Benign Tumors
Medical experts believe that Briones' tumor is benign, meaning it is not cancerous. Benign tumors arise when cells divide and grow abnormally fast. While the body usually regulates cell growth, in these cases, dead cells accumulate, forming a tumor. Benign tumors are typically removed through surgical excision.
Hope Amidst the Hardship
In 2017, well-wishers arranged for an X-ray that confirmed the benign nature of Briones' tumor. However, her fear of surgery has prevented her from seeking further treatment. Despite her suffering, Briones remains grateful for the kindness shown to her. She hopes that medical help will come her way, allowing her to live her remaining years without the burden of her enormous growth.
