La Mesan’s Walk Proves Brain Tumors Aren’t Death Sentences

Kimberly Nadolski had no idea a tumor was growing in husband Christopher’s brain until he had a seizure two years ago.

Fortunately, it was a slow growth that could be removed with surgery, but she says the buildup proved to be an experience they will never forget.

“Leading up to [surgery] was one of the most stressful things we’ve ever dealt with in our lives,” said Nadolski, referencing the comparative ease of her husband’s numerous deployments during 19 years of naval service. “He was very fortunate; he didn’t lose any mobility or speech.”

In fact, Nadolski says her husband was up and walking around later that same March day in 2010, which makes it no surprise that the family—including 19-year-old daughter Kaytlin—took part in the San Diego Brain Tumor Walk on Sept. 10.

And while Nadolski was disappointed with the walk’s low turnout, she says seeing all the survivors made it special.

“The survivors of brain tumors wore blue shirts and everyone else wore white,” she said. “That I really liked.”

Other La Mesans who walked were Kristy Colburn, Patricia Leverton, Nicole Najar, Cyndi Tracy and Sarah Walton.