05/22/2026
22nd May is World NF2 Awareness Day. NF2-Related Schwannomatosis (NF2) is a rare condition that affects 1 in every 33,000 people worldwide, leading to the development of tumours in the central & peripheral nervous systems, mainly in the brain and spinal cord. It can have profound impact on those with NF2 and their families, but remains largely unknown to the general public.
We are discussing mental health in NF2-SWN today. Kim Whitlock, trustee of Cure NF2 Foundation UK & Europe has written a blog about her recent surgery experience and the impact it has had on her emotional, physical and mental wellbeing.
Mental wellness in NF2 Surgery is the silent psychological burden of NF2 which often stems from the progressive nature of the condition (tumour growth, hearing loss, balance issues) and the uncertainty of outcomes from surgery, which may preserve function — or accelerate loss. Emotional strain is a major component of NF2.
Here Kim shares a very honest account of her recent surgery and its effects it has had on her mental wellbeing. Please do take a few minutes to have a read and understand why Cure NF2 Foundation is funding research into new treatments or a cure, giving hope to patients and their families.
I dont regret having the surgery despite me having complications. I have no recollection of around 6 weeks of my life.