Texas Mom Undergoes Brain Surgeries While Pregnant to Treat Rare Autoimmune Disorder

Jessica Lopez Ricard's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from a rare autoimmune disease highlights her resilience and family support.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 9:49pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray image showing the delicate structures of the human brain, conveying the complexity of Jessica's medical condition and the resilience required to overcome it.A medical X-ray reveals the intricate inner workings of the brain, highlighting the challenges Jessica faced in treating her rare autoimmune disorder.San Antonio Today

Jessica Lopez Ricard, a 42-year-old stay-at-home mom in San Antonio, Texas, was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder called granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in 2021 after experiencing severe symptoms and multiple misdiagnoses. She underwent chemotherapy and three brain surgeries, including two while pregnant with her daughter Alessia. Now in remission, Jessica shares her story to inspire others.

Why it matters

Jessica's case highlights the challenges of diagnosing and treating rare autoimmune disorders, especially when they affect critical organs like the brain. Her resilience and determination to fight for her health and family provide an inspiring example of perseverance in the face of a life-threatening condition.

The details

In October 2021, Jessica was admitted to the hospital with severe headaches and lost vision in one eye. She was eventually diagnosed with GPA, a rare form of vasculitis involving chronic inflammation of blood vessels. To treat the disease, she underwent six rounds of chemotherapy and two brain surgeries while pregnant to restore her vision. After her daughter was born prematurely, Jessica continued her treatment, including a second round of chemotherapy. She eventually found success with a new medication, Obinutuzumab, and is now in remission.

  • In August 2021, Jessica ran a half-marathon while visiting family in San Diego.
  • In September 2021, Jessica traveled to Mexico and returned with what she thought were allergy symptoms.
  • In October 2021, Jessica was admitted to the hospital with severe headaches and vision loss.
  • In December 2022, Jessica's daughter Alessia was born two months early at 32 weeks.
  • In July 2023, Jessica began treatment with the medication Obinutuzumab, which helped her achieve remission.

The players

Jessica Lopez Ricard

A 42-year-old stay-at-home mom in San Antonio, Texas, who was diagnosed with the rare autoimmune disorder granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in 2021.

Dr. Alexandra Villa-Forte

A rheumatologist who specializes in treating vasculitis at the Cleveland Clinic and provided a second opinion that helped Jessica find a successful treatment plan.

Joseph Ricard

Jessica's husband, who supported her through her treatment and married her on their daughter's original due date.

Alessia Ricard

Jessica and Joseph's daughter, who was born prematurely at 32 weeks while Jessica was undergoing treatment.

Fernando Ricard

Jessica and Joseph's older son, who was a source of motivation for Jessica during her health struggles.

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What they’re saying

“She's not a hard person to love. She's loving, she's kind, she's patient. I can see her pushing through things on bad days and that means a lot to me, it shows the depth of her love for our family.”

— Joseph Ricard, Jessica's Husband

“I told her we have not exhausted all the possibilities. We sat down and we discussed all the options, all the possibilities, all the different combination therapies.”

— Dr. Alexandra Villa-Forte, Rheumatologist, Cleveland Clinic

What’s next

Jessica continues to share her story and volunteer with the Vasculitis Foundation to raise awareness about rare autoimmune disorders. She also started her own business working as a Spanish translator and interpreter.

The takeaway

Jessica's journey through a life-threatening autoimmune condition while pregnant highlights the importance of perseverance, family support, and seeking multiple medical opinions when facing a rare and complex health challenge. Her story inspires others to be their own advocates and not ignore worrying symptoms.