Valley Center Family Rallies Around Mom's Brain Tumor Battle

April Reid faces surgery and uncertain recovery, but community steps up to support her and her family.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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April Reid, a wife and mother from Valley Center, California, has been diagnosed with a large acoustic neuroma, a rare and slow-growing brain tumor. She will undergo an 8-10 hour surgery on February 19th, followed by at least 5 days in the ICU. The surgery carries risks of hearing loss, vision problems, and facial nerve damage. While April and her husband Ben work to rearrange their lives and finances around her medical needs, the tight-knit Valley Center community has rallied to support the family through fundraising, prayers, and offers of help.

Why it matters

The Reid family's story highlights the challenges that can arise when a serious medical crisis strikes an active family, disrupting their plans and finances. However, it also showcases the power of community support, as the Valley Center residents have come together to assist the Reids during this difficult time.

The details

April Reid began experiencing symptoms like migraines, nausea, hearing loss, and vision problems that gradually worsened. After being diagnosed with a large acoustic neuroma brain tumor, she was quickly connected with a top neurosurgeon at UCSD. Due to the tumor's size and growth, surgery couldn't wait, and it was scheduled for February 19th. The 8-10 hour procedure carries risks of hearing loss, vision problems, and facial nerve damage. While April recovers, her husband Ben is balancing work, childcare for their three kids, and supporting April through this ordeal. The timing is especially difficult as the family was in the midst of planning to build their dream home on Pauma Heights.

  • April Reid will undergo brain surgery on February 19, 2026.
  • She is expected to spend at least 5 days in the ICU following the procedure.

The players

April Reid

A wife and mother from Valley Center, California, who has been diagnosed with a large acoustic neuroma brain tumor.

Ben Reid

April's husband, an independent contractor who serves homes and businesses throughout Valley Center and Pauma Valley.

Dr. Swartz

A neurosurgeon at UCSD who is specializing in April's acoustic neuroma surgery.

Sherry Reid

Ben's mother, who taught generations of local kids at Valley Center Elementary.

Denise McAndrews

April's mother, who served as director of the Valley Center Adult School.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.