Mandy’s Story

For years, constant pain and numbness plagued Mandy’s life. It started in her ear and gradually spread across half of her face. While driving, sudden, intense jolts of pain sometimes forced her to seek help from others. At its worst, her brain felt burdened, rendering her unable to think clearly.

The hardest moments came with her children. They would plead for her to play with them, only to see disappointment cloud their faces when she explained she couldn’t physically join them. Each time shattered her heart.

In 2012, she embarked on a journey across Ontario, consulting neurologists and neurovascular surgeons in search of answers. They discovered a brain bleed in her left temporal lobe, likely a consequence of her abusive past, but were unable to alleviate her suffering.

In 2017, while browsing Facebook, a post caught her eye—a recommendation for Dr. Andrew Parrent at London Health Sciences Centre. He was renowned for pioneering neurology research, sparking a glimmer of hope after years of despair. After persistent efforts, she secured a referral to see him.

From the first appointment, it was evident Dr. Parrent was determined to help, despite limited treatment options. He proposed a radical surgery involving electrodes placed under the pain receptors in her brain, a procedure she was willing to undergo despite the risks.

However, Dr. Parrent retired, passing her care to Dr. Jonathan Lau. Instantly, she sensed Dr. Lau’s genuine concern and approachability. Unlike previous consultations, there was a neurosurgeon who agreed to help.

On May 11, 2022, she underwent surgery for a trial Deep Brain Stimulation system. Later that year she became the first person in Canada to have a spinal cord stimulator permanently implanted for “off-label” use, equipped with cutting-edge technology allowing connectivity via Bluetooth.

Dr. Lau’s research, funded by donations, focused on clinical trials for innovative procedures, leading to her newfound relief from nearly lifelong pain. This transformation inspired her to plan positively for the future, pursuing studies in social work, early childhood education, and business administration.

Reflecting on cherished childhood memories and inspired by her cousin’s teaching career, she set her sights on joining an agency supporting children with special needs, aiming to combat abuse and ignorance through education.

Recalling her grandmother’s words, “I couldn’t dream without you,” she finally understood their meaning post-surgery. Dr. Lau had enabled her to dream again.

Among the most joyous moments of her recovery was playing in the snow with her children, Mason and Melody. For the first time in decades, she felt the cold against her face without pain, savoring the simple pleasure of snowflakes melting on her cheek. It was an incredible experience, marking a new chapter of freedom from suffering and renewed possibilities.