Brain Aneurysm Foundation BAF Changemaker: Julie Brothers
Julie Brothers from Warren, Ohio – a proud survivor!
Julie Brothers survived a ruptured brain aneurysm in April of 2024, which began with a sudden, severe headache and led to misdiagnosis before ultimately receiving life-saving surgery. During her recovery, she discovered the Brain Aneurysm Foundation (BAF), which provided her with a sense of community and support. Now a passionate advocate, Julie raises awareness about the importance of early detection and the need for widespread understanding of brain aneurysms, aiming to help others recognize symptoms and seek timely care.
BAF: Tell us a little about your connection with brain aneurysms.
JB: On April 23rd, 2024, I survived a subarachnoid hemorrhage—though I had no idea what it was at the time. It started like any other Tuesday evening at home, working on my laptop and eating takeout, when I was hit with a sudden, sharp pain in the back of my head, like something had snapped. Dizzy and disoriented, I assumed it was a migraine, despite never having had one. As the pain worsened and my neck stiffened, I finally went to a walk-in clinic the next morning, where I was treated for a migraine and sent home. Still unwell, I headed to the ER at Mount Sinai Morningside about 36 hours later. I had thought that I was probably, at the very least, dehydrated from the consistent vomiting, but I also didn’t want to blow anything out of proportion. However, I knew something didn’t feel right.
“Thankfully, in the ER, my symptoms were taken seriously and listened to.”
My vitals were taken, and I was given fluids and a brain scan, all of which happened so quickly. I’ll never forget being told that I had a ruptured brain aneurysm. I actually felt a sort of calm. It was almost a relief to know there was a name for what I felt! After I received that news, I relayed to my parents that I would be taken via ambulance to receive brain surgery. From there, things went fast, and the next thing I knew, I was waking up in the neuro ICU after receiving endovascular surgery. I now have platinum coils in my brain, which feels like quite the fancy souvenir to keep with me always.
BAF: When did you first learn about the BAF?
JB: I learned about the BAF while in discussions with my medical team in the neuro ICU and/or doing a cursory Google search once I was feeling better. I spent a lot of time in bed for the 18 days in the hospital. It took a few days, but once I wasn’t nauseous reading, I did some research in hopes there was support for someone in my shoes. And thankfully, I found the Brain Aneurysm Foundation’s website, as well as their social media sites. It helped me feel like I wasn’t alone. Although I wish none of us would ever have to go through what our community has, it was comforting to know that a foundation was in place to help raise awareness and funding.
BAF: Have you participated in any BAF events? What did that experience mean to you?
JB: I was fortunate enough to form a team and join the 11th Annual TeamCindy 5K Run for Research (now known as the Annual New York City Run/Walk) on Saturday, September 14, 2024, in New York City. I was discharged from Mount Sinai on May 13th, so almost 4 months to the day, I was able to participate in the 5K as a walker. It is not lost on me how extremely lucky I am to have been able to do that in such a short amount of time, from aneurysm rupture to fundraising to participating in the 5K physically. Two of my favorite things from that day were having my best friend walk alongside me on my team, supporting me the whole way, and seeing my Neurosurgeon, Dr. Christopher Kellner, who participated as a runner for the Mount Sinai team. He was so excited to see me! We took several photos together. It was a beautiful and solemn day filled with a range of emotions. This year, I am excited to be on the committee for the 2025 5K, and I plan to participate every year.
BAF: How do you explain the importance of brain aneurysm awareness to people who may not know much about it?
JB: I had no idea anyone could even survive a brain aneurysm rupture! I always thought that a ruptured aneurysm equaled an obituary. I have made it my goal to spread the word on the signs and symptoms of aneurysms, to raise money, and to raise overall awareness of this misunderstood disease. For this, I am so thankful to be a part of the BAF.
BAF: What does the BAF community mean to you?
JB: I have never felt alone navigating this world as a word I never thought would be printed on the back of a shirt I would wear: SURVIVOR. Being a survivor is an honor. I have learned so much from my fellow brain aneurysm warriors. Not only that, but I’ve met a new community of friends that I’ve grown to love who understand what I feel day-to-day in a way my other family and friends hopefully will never understand.
BAF: If you could share one thing with the world about brain aneurysms, what would it be?
JB: I can’t speak for others, but I don’t believe I’m alone in hoping that brain scans (MRA, CT scans) could be as mainstream as mammograms. Early detection saves lives. A world without aneurysms is a world I’d like to see one day. With the help of the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, I hope that day is not just a dream but within reach.