NFL QB’s wife Kelly reveals severe after-effects of brain tumor: I have never been the same

Kelly Stafford’s biggest battle came in 2019, when she was diagnosed with a benign acoustic neuroma, a rare brain tumor affecting balance and hearing.  She first noticed symptoms while playing with her daughters, recalling how the room suddenly started spinning after performing a simple forward roll.

“I was trying to teach my girls the front roll… and the room just started spinning,” she recounted.  As her vertigo spells worsened, she had a terrifying episode while holding Hunter, forcing her to throw the baby to Matthew before collapsing. Concerned, Matthew urged her to see a doctor, which led to the discovery of the tumor.

In April 2019, Kelly underwent a grueling 12-hour surgery to remove it. The procedure saved her life, but it came with lasting effects.  “I have never been the same… My balance is still off. My brain has to relearn how to balance using just one side. Part of my hearing is gone on my right side,” she admitted.

Despite the physical setbacks, she remains grateful that the surgery didn’t affect her sense of taste or smell-a relief for someone who loves food.

Stafford’s uncertain future

While Kelly has been thriving personally and professionally, Matthew Stafford’s NFL future has been uncertain in recent weeks. Rumors of a possible trade from the Los Angeles Rams surfaced, with both his camp and the team leaking reports to gain leverage in contract negotiations.

However, those rumors were put to rest as Stafford and the Rams restructured his deal, ensuring he will remain in Los Angeles for at least the 2025 season.  Kelly met Matthew while they were both at Georgia University (2006-2008)-he was the starting QB, and she was a cheerleader. Coming from a football family-her brother Chad Hall played in the NFL and is now the New York Giants’ assistant QB coach-she always understood the demands of the sport.