Jacob has Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the ventricles (cavities) deep within the brain. This excess fluid causes the ventricles to widen, putting pressure on the brain's tissues. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the clear, colorless fluid that protects and cushions the brain and spine. (Source: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/hydrocephalus-fact-sheet)
Jacob Aaron Roske is half the sonic duo Beatrix*Jar. He’s a prolific interdisciplinary artist; his work includes sound, visual art, and video. Jacob sews fabric cats and makes one-of-a-kind screenprints.
Jacob was diagnosed with a benign hypothalamic astrocytoma as a teenager, meaning there is a small tumor in his hypothalamus.
By 2014, his astrocytoma had grown significantly, blocking the flow of his CSF (Cerebral Spinal Fluid) from his brain and creating a buildup of fluid. His neurosurgeon diagnosed him with Hydrocephalus, a rare brain disorder, and he had emergency surgery to install a VP Shunt in his brain.
Jacob experienced numerous challenges after his surgery, including Executive Functioning Issues, ADHD, and Depression - for a while, he quit making music. However, he’s continued to thrive as an artist, receiving a BA in Art from the University of Minnesota in 2018 and creating numerous projects like albums and art installations.
In July 2022, after his yearly MRI, Jacob was told that he was having additional swelling in his brain and would need another surgery to replace his current VP Shunt. Jacob will have surgery in early 2023 and needs financial support during his recovery.
As his partner for over 19 years, I’ve realized that Jacob is very private and rarely publicly discusses his brain injury. So this is our attempt to spread the word about Hydrocephalus and find Jacob financial support for his surgery.