Danielle Laidley Opens Up About Rare Brain Tumour Diagnosis
Former AFL player and coach Danielle Laidley has made a shocking revelation about her health, sharing that she has been diagnosed with a rare brain tumour. Speaking candidly on The Imperfects podcast, Laidley disclosed that doctors discovered a subependymoma, a benign tumour on her spinal cord, after she experienced persistent headaches.
Reflecting on the moment she received the news, Laidley described it as being "hit over the head with a sledgehammer." It all began last October when she started experiencing severe headaches. Seeking medical advice, she underwent scans and MRIs, which revealed the tumour at the base of her skull, pressing on her spinal cord. Despite being non-cancerous, its location made removal necessary, as it could lead to serious complications over time.
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Laidley recounted the overwhelming experience of waiting three weeks for a confirmed diagnosis, describing the silence between her and her partner, Donna, as they tried to process the news. "It was as blunt as, 'You have a brain tumour, here’s a referral, off you go.' Donna and I just went completely quiet. That’s when you know something isn’t right," she said.
However, after consulting with her surgeon, Laidley found reassurance. "I can sit here today and use a quote from my surgeon: 'It’s not going to kill me, but it has to come out.' That gave us some peace of mind, but it was still a heavy thing to hear." She admitted that the thought of having a tumour still crosses her mind, but she is focusing on the fact that it is treatable.
Beyond her personal battle, Laidley continues to make an impact. She has been actively involved in various projects, from football analysis to running a supported independent living business for people with disabilities. She is also an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and remains an inspiring figure in and out of the sports world.
Reflecting on her decision to go public with her diagnosis, she explained, "I think it’s time not to keep this private, but to share it, just as I have with the rest of my life. I want people to know that even in the face of such challenges, with the right support and care, everything is going to be OK."
Despite the uncertainty and initial shock, Laidley is determined to face this battle head-on, embracing the journey with the same resilience that defined her AFL career. With the support of her loved ones and medical team, she is ready to take on this next challenge, knowing that brighter days lie ahead.
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