'Found By Accident': Brain Tumor Found At OU Health During Yukon Woman's Routine Checkup

An accidental discovery at OU Health likely saved a Yukon woman’s life.

Doctors found out Kinsey White's headaches were caused by a brain tumor. A unique surgery helped White return home days later. 

“So happy that it turned out the way that it did,” White said. 

White said she always suffered frequent headaches. An MRI revealed a tumor in her brain. 

“It was something that was found by accident,” White said. “Just went from there after that.” 

Knowledge that the potential cancer exists helps doctors brainstorm a plan. White’s tumor was less severe, but she could have lost her speech. OU Health Neurosurgeon Christopher Graffeo performed a unique surgery.  

“The most common tumor in that category is what we call a glioma,” Graffeo said. “Still, something we take very seriously.” 

Graffeo and his team performed a craniotomy to remove most of the tumor.  

 “All of this is a team effort,” Graffeo said.  

Doctors woke White up for part of the surgery so they could monitor her speech.  

White's spirit today proves the surgery’s success. 

“Back to work two days later is kind of crazy,” Graffeo said. 

White’s case shined a light on the importance of early detection. 

“Hopefully people start to look into it more,” White said. “Especially if you have migraines.” 

Now, White said she is focusing on her family. 

“She’s going to get a lot more time and a lot more quality of life,” Graffeo said.

She thinks about the little things they'll cherish together. 

“Thankful for that for sure,” White said. 

White said she has some appointments ahead to keep an eye on her brain. However, she says she feels healthy and close to normal.