On April 15, 2025, Wendy (LaFountain) Flansburg was admitted to the emergency room, initially presenting with symptoms indicative of a stroke. After a thorough evaluation, it was determined that she was not experiencing a stroke, but rather had a large mass in her brain accompanied by several smaller masses. After a month of extensive testing, it was confirmed that the primary source was cervical cancer, specifically neuroendocrine cervical cancer, a rare variant that metastasizes to the brain in only 0.4% to 2.3% of cases.
From April 15 until the end of July, Wendy navigated a series of significant medical events. An emergency room visit resulted in a devastating diagnosis and her initial hospitalization.
On May 28, a surgical procedure was performed to remove the large brain mass in Billings. During the two-week post-operative follow-up, while the incision was healing well, Wendy began to experience loss of mobility in her legs, memory issues, and significant swelling due to a medication error.
A few days after initiating chemotherapy, another emergency room visit led to an additional hospital stay. Three weeks later, she underwent her second round of chemotherapy. The day following this treatment, she developed a large blood clot, resulting in a critical condition that required another trip to the emergency room.
This blood clot subsequently fragmented and migrated to both of her lungs, necessitating a longer hospital stay characterized by extensive diagnostic testing. After a brief respite at home, her health deteriorated, requiring another emergency room visit to address fluid accumulation in her lungs.
Following yet another emergency visit and three canceled chemotherapy sessions upon the recommendation of her physician, they collectively determined that continuing chemotherapy may not be the optimal course of action.
Wendy is an extraordinary, compassionate individual who has consistently dedicated her life to assisting others in need. She has exemplified hard work throughout her career, serving as a Certified Nursing Assistant for 25 years before transitioning to a position as a waitress at the R&R for the past nine years. Over the years, she has established deep connections with the families and friends of her former clients as well as her current patrons. Her commitment to helping others has been unwavering, even during challenging times.
Wendy is the proud mother of three children—Chasity (the eldest), Shay, and Chase—and a devoted grandmother to 11 grandchildren, whose ages range from 14 years to 11 months, for whom she would make any sacrifice.
A benefit event is scheduled for October 3rd at Times Square, located at 525 Central Avenue, 2nd floor, from 5 PM to 10 PM. This event will feature a spaghetti dinner, live music, and a silent auction. All proceeds will be directed to Wendy and her family to help mitigate medical expenses and ongoing costs as she continues her battle with cancer.
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
