I was 41 when I was diagnosed. Now I am 42. In April 2025, I had an MRI because of a herniated disc. That is when they found a mass. I had no symptoms before, it was discovered by chance.
I had emergency surgery, and afterward I learned from the pathology results that it was a chordoma. I was shocked. The tumor is located at the C3 level in my neck, surrounding the right vertebral artery and extending into the nerves of my right arm. Because of its location, it could not be completely removed. After the diagnosis, I was emotionally very affected.
My doctors advised me to go abroad for treatment. Our Ministry of Health asked for reports and documents and shared my case internationally. I was accepted in Germany, and the ministry covered all the costs. In August 2025, I went to Marburg University for carbon-ion therapy and received 20 sessions. The treatment went well, and I did not have many side effects. After each session, I would walk in the forest, which became my routine.
My husband was always with me, but I missed my children very much. I have a 13-year-old son and a 15-year-old daughter. I love my family very much, and they have helped me through this time. Now I am back home. I have MRI scans every three months, and so far the tumor remains stable.
I still have pain on the right side of my neck, and sometimes swallowing is difficult. I am not well enough to work, so I am not teaching this year. I also receive psychological support and take antidepressants.