UGA student being treated in Jacksonville has brain tumor, latest GoFundMe update says

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A University of Georgia senior who suffered a brain bleed while on spring break in Mexico and is being treated at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville has been diagnosed with a brain tumor.

The latest post on Burke’s GoFundMe page said the tumor is near her brain stem. It’s not clear if it is cancerous.

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Burke’s mother, who lives in Jacksonville, said Burke started radiation this week and will continue to do radiation for the next five to six weeks.

Her mom said Burke is still on a ventilator, but responsive to commands.

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This is the latest message from the GoFundMe page:

“March 24, 2023 by Jennifer Ritter, Organizer

“A lot has changed since our last update. A very talented team of doctors have been working hard on our sweet Liza to get a firm diagnosis. We know now that is not AVM, but a brain tumor located near her brain stem. We had a successful biopsy yesterday and the pathology team is working to determine exactly what we are dealing with.

“From Laura (mom)10:30am update.

“It’s Friday, the last day for action before the hospital goes dormant for 2 days. Dormant like this tumor likely was for many years before it became aggressive in a very short time. Thankfully, our optimistic Dr. Trifiletti (radiologist) is pushing her radiation mask through for today-even if they need to make it while she is still on the ventilator. We won’t have a full pathology report for a week but he intends to start radiation on Monday as soon as the mask is ready. She’ll get 30 sessions daily M-F over the next 5-6 weeks. There are potential side effects but well worth the risk given the rapid growth. Currently Liza is breathing on her own but until she responds to our commands (toe wiggle, hand squeeze) the doctors are reluctant to remove the vent. Please pray for her responsiveness and her fighting spirit. She’s the leader in this fight but we are her warriors marching into battle with her.

“If you feel led to send a note of encouragement, please send to Liza’s attention at Mayo clinic in Jacksonville.”

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