How long has Eleanor been battling her brain tumor?

Eleanor has been fighting her brain tumor for 14 years, since she was just 4 years old.

What does Eleanor enjoy doing despite her visual impairment?

Eleanor particularly enjoys observing pigeons, as she can see their dark grey forms contrasting with the lighter pavement.

Home / Health / Brave Girl Battles Brain Tumor for 14 Years, Finds Joy in Pigeons

Brave Girl Battles Brain Tumor for 14 Years, Finds Joy in Pigeons

Q: What is Eleanor's condition?

Eleanor was diagnosed with a Low Grade Hypothalamic Glioma, an incurable brain tumor that has permanently damaged her optical nerves, leaving her severely sight-impaired.

14 Nov

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Summary

Eleanor diagnosed with incurable brain tumor at age 4
Tumor has permanently damaged her optical nerves, causing severe sight impairment
Despite challenges, she finds happiness in observing pigeons

Brave Girl Battles Brain Tumor for 14 Years, Finds Joy in Pigeons

As of November 14th, 2025, 14-year-old Eleanor has been battling a brain tumor for most of her life. Just as she was about to start school, her family noticed she was dropping things and struggling to identify colors. An eye test revealed the devastating news: Eleanor had been diagnosed with a Low Grade Hypothalamic Glioma, an incurable brain tumor that has permanently damaged her optical nerves.

Over the past decade, Eleanor has undergone numerous scans, tests, neurosurgery, and chemotherapy treatments. While she can now only see light and dark, and no longer recognizes people's faces, she has found solace in observing pigeons. Her father, Tim, shares that she particularly enjoys watching the birds' dark grey forms contrasting with the lighter pavement. Eleanor's resilience and positive attitude have been an inspiration to those around her, as she continues to navigate the challenges of her condition with grace and humor.