The saying, “Mother knows best,” is a bit tongue-in-cheek. But in many instances, when it comes to the health and well-being of their children, moms have a great track record. Thankfully, when one mother noticed some differences in her adult daughter and advised her to seek medical attention, she listened.
The daughter’s decision to follow her mother’s advice helped doctors discover a brain tumor in enough time for them to treat and remove it safely.
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Victoria Vesce was a cheerleader for the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets when her mother first noticed four distinct changes in her daughter’s appearance and demeanor, the Mirror reported.
She told her daughter she looked fatigued, imbalanced, and flushed. She also noted that she was having hearing difficulties.
“My mom had an intuition that something wasn’t right with me,” Vesce said, reported Surrey Live. “She noticed I was more fatigued than usual, and my energy levels didn’t match my normally vibrant personality.”
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Vesce said the changes were subtle and things only a mother would notice. Once she pointed them out, the mom encouraged her daughter to see a doctor. Vesce tried to downplay what she was experiencing as symptoms of stress or tiredness. But her mom kept pushing.
Eventually, Vesce was diagnosed with a brain tumor. She underwent an intense surgery in 2017, which required a portion of her skull to be removed.
In addition to the surgery, Vesce underwent 30 rounds of experimental radiation. Today, Vesce uses her social media following to remind people to prioritize their health.
“Trust your body and don’t ignore the signs it’s giving you,” Vesce said. “If something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice — even if you think it’s minor. Early detection can save lives, and being proactive about your health is never overreacting. You know yourself better than anyone, so listen to those instincts.”
Vesce shared that when you aren’t listening to your own body, it’s important to have a support system that will push you to take care of yourself.
Sadly, Vesce’s mother can’t be that type of presence in the same way any longer. She died suddenly during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving her daughter before the two had a chance to say a final goodbye. Still, the gratitude remains.
“Words can’t describe how thankful I am to my mom,” Vesce said. “I miss her every single day. She didn’t just give me life — she saved it when I couldn’t see the danger myself. Her love and intuition were gifts I’ll carry with me forever. Losing her made me realize just how much she sacrificed and how deeply she cared, even when I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time.”
*Disclaimer: The advice on LittleThings.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
