I thought I was just stressed — I had a massive brain tumor
'They're amazing and they are so much fun, but it's a lot,' she told The Post. 'It's a lot to juggle.'
She was a clinical social worker at the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center at Mount Sinai, and — between that and the kids — she thought she might have a cold that just wasn't going away.
'End of October, it started getting a lot worse,' she said.
5 Amanda Hyne, 37, had two young children — 18 months and 4 at the time — when her symptoms began.
'The fatigue was starting to get really bad,' she said.
That fall, she took a work trip to Australia with her husband — an avid surfer — when the headaches became more severe.
'I was getting to that point to take Excedrin at least one time every day in order to function, in order to kind of get out of bed,' she said.
'And it was awful — like literally almost like a labor contraction in my head or somebody taking an ice pick and just stabbing me in the head.'
When she got back home, things only got worse.
'I would wake up and feel miserable,' she said.
'No amount of sleep that I got would help. I would literally work, see patients, take care of the kids at night with my husband and then try to go to bed at eight. Nothing would help. I would wake up and it was like Groundhog Day — and I would just feel miserable again.'
5 'It was awful — like literally almost like a labor contraction in my head or somebody taking an ice pick and just stabbing me in the head,' she said.
'Couldn't even go down to get myself a yogurt for lunch,' she added. 'It was that debilitating.'
At the time, she chopped it up to the stress of being a mom with a full-time job.
'I was like, what choice do I have? I feel bad but the kids still need parenting and my job still needs to get done,' she said.
Her PCP referred her to a neurologist in Connecticut.
'I think he took [it] really seriously, which I was really grateful for,' she said.
It turned out she had a massive brain tumor. Luckily, she felt like she was in good hands.
5 Amanda 'Mandy' Hyne, 37, with her neurosurgeon, Dr. Raj Shrivastava, at her six-month follow-up appointment on July 8, 2025 at Mount Sinai in New York City, following successful surgery to remove a brain tumor.
OLGA GINZBURG FOR THE NEW YORK POST
'They took it very seriously — [they told me,] 'It's a good thing you came in when you did,' but also didn't resort to scare tactics.'
She was told: 'We're going to figure this out and there's a plan and here's what we're going to do.'
They did the best they could to mollify the whole process.
'Just how fast everything moved, from the MRI, to the results, to the surgery appointment, to scheduling — everything was so fast and that gave me a lot of confidence that these are providers who are taking it seriously,' she said. 'But it was scary.'
5 Amanda was diagnosed as having hemangioblastoma, a benign tumor that nonetheless caused serious symptoms when it pushed her brain out of alignment.
OLGA GINZBURG FOR THE NEW YORK POST
Hyne wants women everywhere to know it's OK to take your pain seriously.
'I know how easy it is, I think for women in particular, to kind of get down on themselves,' she said, remembering how she would wonder if she just wasn't 'cut out to do all the things.'
'And I thought I was doing all the things well, and now maybe I can, but I feel horrible. And what's got to give at that point?'
And she's doing fine now, by the way.
5 'I think he took [it] really seriously, which I was really grateful for,' she said.
OLGA GINZBURG FOR THE NEW YORK POST
'I'm great and still recovering, so I still get tired sometimes but a different kind of tired than I was — like that tired was 'there's no end in sight I could sleep for five days,'' she said.
'[Now] I'm tired because I'm recovering and I'm doing a lot — but when I sleep, I wake up and I feel better.
'I'm headache-free, which is It's really nice,' she added. 'I can get through the day and still be able to have time and do things that are fun.'
If there's one thing she would like people to take away from her story, it's to listen to their bodies.
'It's important to do that,' she said. 'And if something doesn't feel right, ask, get checked out, figure out what's going on. Seek providers who listen to you and take you seriously.'
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Packed with vitamin B3, zinc, peptides and moisture-balancing agents, it goes beyond surface-level cleansing to restore the scalp's ecosystem, which is essential for anyone experiencing thinning, dryness or dullness. After using this shampoo for more than a year, my scalp feels more hydrated and volumized at the roots. It may be a less-than-$25 product, but it's the unsung hero that's playing in the same league as high-end competitors — minus the inflated price tag and overhyped promises. And, let's not forget the ethics. Dove's formula is vegan, PETA-approved and free from sulfates and harsh stripping agents. In a market dominated by greenwashed marketing, that kind of transparency matters. But even if it didn't, the results speak for themselves. 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Whether you're dealing with heat damage or dryness, this conditioner consistently shows up and delivers, with a creamy texture and clean-rinsing finish that rivals formulas three times its price. Oh, and it's also cruelty free, paraben-free and dye-free, and yet still somehow feels indulgent. It doesn't compromise results, which makes this a must-have in anyone's haircare routine. The miracles don't end here. You can score both the shampoo and conditioner for $15 on Amazon. Best Face Wash: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay 2-in-1 Daily Cleanser Amazon Pros: Doubles as a face mask due to its creamy formula Helps mitigate the appearance of pores Absorbs well and creates a wonderful base for other skincare products or makeup Cons: Functions as more of a hydrating face wash than a deeply penetrating cleanser, which may not be the best fit for oily or acne-prone skin types Skip the 12-step beauty routine and complicated active ingredients. 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A complexion that feels smooth, balanced and — dare I say — glowy, without the tightness or irritation that so often follows a deep cleanse. It's one of my favorites, hands down. And if you need proof it's more than just pretty packaging, the formulation speaks for itself. After using, my skin feels healthier-looking, more moisturized and with less pores. Translation: you don't need a cleanser that'll cost you two Benjamins. Best Makeup Remover: Aveeno Positively Radiant Makeup Removing Wipes Amazon Pros: Gentle on the skin Actually removes all makeup Doesn't clog pores Cons: May be too drying for extremely dry or flaky skin types Aveeno's Positively Radiant Makeup Removing Wipes transform a simple cleansing step into a moment of skin-loving luxury, all without demanding a premium price. Priced well under $25, these wipes harness the power of soy extract to not only dissolve makeup but subtly brighten and even out my complexion whenever I use them on my face and eyelids. Their gentle, oil-free, sulfate-free and alcohol-free formula is a thoughtful nod to sensitive skin, delivering a soothing yet effective cleanse that feels anything but basic. Victoria Giardina They're even ophthalmologist-tested and safe for contact lens wearers, and effortlessly remove stubborn eye makeup without causing irritation or redness — a rare feat in the wipe world. Their non-comedogenic formula keeps my pores clear and skin breathable, and I always wake up with a fresh face rather than a breakout. Whether I'm rushing through my nighttime routine or in need of a oil-blotting-esque refresh, these wipes perform with an easy confidence that makes them an indispensable staple. This is a two-pack, which is still less than $25! Best Face Sunscreen: The Face Shop Hydro Sun Barrier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Sunscreen Amazon Pros: Silky smooth, lightweight formulation Layers well underneath makeup with no white cast Contains niacinamide to help soothe the skin Cons: Isn't 100% fragrance-free, though not a dealbreaker Listen, I've tested a boatload of sunscreens (seriously, you should see my dresser drawer — and yes, I have a dresser drawer filled with SPFs). Throughout my many years of testing, I learned that not all sunscreens were created equal — and The Face Shop Hydro Sun Barrier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Sunscreen is truly a standout. While I rated the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60 as the best face sunscreen I reviewed for most people, I've been resorting to this Korean beauty formula that's one of my favorite 2025 beauty launches. It's lightweight, doesn't leave a white cast and doubles as a silky smooth makeup primer. What's not to love? On its formulation, it's infused with niacinamide and calendula, allowing it to shield my skin from harmful UV rays but also brighten and soothe it, which visibly enhances my overall skin tone and texture. These ingredients work together to provide a subtle radiance, making the sunscreen a dual-purpose product that combines sun protection with serum-like benefits. This thoughtful formulation ensures that my face is in a state of perpetual nourishment, all while being protected throughout the day. Amazon Pros: Affordable price point Excellent value for the money, given its jar size Absorbs well and contains cocoa butter and vitamin E for long-lasting hydration Cons: Not 100% fragrance-free, so it may not be the best choice for extremely sensitive skin types It may be considered too thick for humid climates If there's one body cream that's earned its place as a holy grail for dry skin, it's the NIVEA Cocoa Butter Body Cream. This affordable gem delivers a level of nourishment that rivals high-end counterparts — without the inflated price tag. Rich but never clumpy, the cream melts into the skin with a silky ease, flooding my *very* dry elbows, knees and heels with 48 hours of moisture. The secret lies in NIVEA's signature Deep Moisture Serum, a tried-and-true blend that feels less like a skincare product and more like a rescue mission for parched skin. Victoria Giardina The luxurious infusion of cocoa butter is like no other; it's a decadent, vitamin-rich emollient that has long been a skincare staple for good reason. Combined with antioxidant-packed vitamin E, the formula hydrates and actively works to restore my skin's elasticity, luminosity and overall health. It's the one I turn to most because of how deeply nourishing it is. There's a subtle, comforting scent of warm cocoa that lingers without overwhelming, making each application feel like a small act of self-care. In short: this isn't just body cream: it's a ritual, wrapped in a jar. Key ingredients: Cocoa Butter, Vitamin E | Size: 16 ounces | Fragrance: Cocoa Amazon Pros: Contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and nourish the skin Available in a generous roster of shades Ergonomic and practical applicator Cons: Not 100% full coverage, though not a dealbreaker Looking for a foundation that feels like luxury without the price tag? Enter the L'Oréal Paris True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum — the beauty world's cheeky secret weapon. It's makeup and skincare all wrapped into one, dripping with 1% hyaluronic acid to deliver that fresh‑face glow while evening out your tone with sheer to medium coverage. Picture your skin in HD, but, you know, softer, smoother and plumper. I'm a bit skeptical of drugstore foundations, but this tinted formulation makes my skin feel naturally airbrushed while remaining lightweight and flattering. In one hand you've got luminous mineral pigments, and in the other, hydration that lasts. This tinted serum has an all‑day satin finish that's plumping, breathable and noncomedogenic. It glides on like water, blends like a dream (fingers give the most radiant payoff) and stays put long after your 9-to-5 (or full wedding day) without creasing or melting. While designer brands may charge triple for a tinted serum, this little wonder is less than $25. So yes, it truly is your true match. Best Concealer: NYX Professional Makeup Bare with Me Concealer Serum Amazon Pros: Affordable price point Glides onto the skin and feels like skincare, offering hydration to the skin Great for brightening and helping to correct dark circles Cons: Limited shade range May not be enough for those who need full coverage The NYX Professional Makeup Bare with Me Concealer Serum is a game-changing product that brings a fresh take on concealers. This lightweight, serum-like formula instantly gives a natural, radiant finish that comes with buildable coverage. Right off the bat, I noticed that it effortlessly blurs imperfections, dark circles and blemishes. It's also infused with skincare ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber extract to not only conceal but also hydrate and soothe my skin. That said, it's perfect for long wear. The formula is also noncomedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores, and it's suitable for all skin types, including my sensitive skin. For less than $15, it offers a skincare-like finish that I always gravitate toward. Victoria Giardina Versatile and creamy (without being goopy), the Bare with Me Concealer Serum sets itself apart from other drugstore options. It blends seamlessly into the skin, providing a smooth, skin-like finish that doesn't feel heavy or cakey. If you're looking for light coverage to even out your skin tone or need to build up to a medium coverage for more stubborn blemishes, this concealer offers you the flexibility to tailor it to your needs. The serum formula ensures that it doesn't settle into fine lines or creases, so it's especially apt for mature skin or anyone seeking a more youthful appearance. Shade range: 16 colors | Good for: Dark circles, blemishes Amazon Pros: Extremely gentle and soothing Lightweight and layerable Clean ingredients Cons: May feel too watery for some The Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner isn't just a toner — it's skincare therapy in a bottle. It's beloved for a reason, containing 77% heartleaf extract (yes, that's a lot), a botanical known in Korean herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-redness and skin-purifying magic. When I use this product after my cleanser, I love how the lightweight, watery formula sinks in faster than a compliment on good skin, instantly calming irritation, bringing down visible redness and prepping my face like a blank canvas. Pro tip: soak a few cotton pads and press them onto inflamed areas for five minutes as a quick DIY calming mask. Where this toner really shines is in its quiet power. It's alcohol-free, fragrance-free and low-pH, meaning it respects your skin barrier instead of testing it. After cleansing, pat it gently into the skin with your hands; no need for cotton if you're aiming for full absorption. If your skin is dry or especially stressed, layer it. Yes, layer it. The '7-skin method' (applying toner in multiple light layers) makes this formula sing. It delivers bounce, hydration and visible clarity without any stickiness or shine. Key ingredient: Heartleaf Extract | Size: 8.45 ounces | Fragrance: None Best Razor: Billie Women's Shave Kit Amazon Pros: Produces a gentle, close chave The head is large enough to cut down shaving time Comes with a magnetic holder to place onto your shower wall Cons: The mechanism to replace the razor head could be more seamless and simple, though not a dealbreaker Shaving just got a serious upgrade, and it comes wrapped in a sleek matte handle with the name Billie. The Billie Women's Shave Kit is a thoughtfully engineered tool designed for real skin, real curves and real routines. At this point, it's basically the only one I use. With five ultra-sharp, nickel-free blades cushioned by aloe and charcoal shave soap, this razor glides like butter and leaves zero irritation in its wake. Whether I'm tackling tricky spots like knees and ankles or going for that all-over smoothness, Billie's pivoting head hugs every contour effortlessly. As someone prone to razor bumps, there aren't any nicks or bumps after using this tool, only a soft finish. Beyond the blade, Billie brings serious style and smarts to my shower. The magnetic holder is low-key genius (no more soggy razors laying around or questionable suction cups losing grip mid-rinse). The entire experience feels elevated: from the velvety handle (designed to never slip) to the easy snap-on cartridges that make blade-changing a breeze. It's minimal, it's functional and frankly, it looks like something I'm proud to display, not hide away in your caddy. And, perhaps the most refreshing part? Billie kicks the 'pink tax' to the curb. At less than $15 for the starter kit — which includes the razor, two refill cartridges, and the magnetic holder — it's high performance without the high markup. Refills are affordable, flexible via subscription and always cruelty free. This product is the new standard for shaving, and I recommend it to everyone. Best Makeup Primer: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Invisibly Radiant UV Primer SPF 30 Amazon Pros: Contains broad-spectrum SPF 30 that's recommended by dermatologists and protects against UVA and UVB rays Lightweight, blends well and cosmetically elegant Budget-friendly Cons: May be a bit too thin for some users, though isn't incredibly runny New from Neutrogena is its rockstar, less-than-$15 Healthy Skin Invisibly Radiant UV Primer SPF 30. It's a multi-functional product that combines skincare and makeup prep in one. This primer is impressively lightweight, provides a smooth, even base for foundation and offers the much-needed benefit of sun protection with broad-spectrum SPF 30. It's cosmetically elegant with an extraordinarily absorbable base. When I use it before my foundation, I instantly notice my skin looking more illuminated — simple radiance without that greasy feel or, worse: that unwanted white cast. It's the best makeup primer with SPF that I tested for its elegance and efficacy. In addition to SPF, this primer is infused with ingredients that promote healthier-looking skin. It contains a blend of antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, which help protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage. These antioxidants not only work to protect your skin but also contribute to a more even, luminous complexion. So, I feel good whenever I use it. The primer is gentle on my sensitive skin, and I'd anticipate it working well on all skin types as it's not dryer nor greasy. It's also free from harsh chemicals or fragrances that could cause irritation. The inclusion of SPF 30 makes this primer an excellent option for daily use, as it provides essential sun protection while preparing your skin for makeup. It helps shield the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays that contribute to premature aging and skin damage. Its smooth, radiant finish complements any makeup look, and I'm especially excited to continue using this Neutrogena primer during the warmer months. Size: 1 fl oz. | Base: Cream | Finish: Glowy | Best for: All Skin Types Best Eye Cream: Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel Amazon Pros: Budget-friendly Instantly brightens, which is seriously impressive for a less-than-$10 product Feels silky smooth once applied Cons: Not much product in the tube, though not a dealbreaker If your under-eyes are crying out for a wake-up call, the Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel is the kind of skincare SOS they've been waiting for. This cooling gel is powered by yerba mate extract, a natural source of antioxidants and caffeine that instantly perks up dullness and fatigue. The texture is light-as-air and absorbs in seconds, leaving no residue behind — just smoother, fresher-looking skin that feels as energized as it looks. From the first time I used this product, I was blown away. It's the product you reach for on those mornings when the snooze button won and you need to fake wide-awake in five minutes flat. What sets this brightening eye gel apart is its clean, targeted formula. It boasts caffeine to de-puff, peptides to firm and smooth and yerba mate to energize and protect — all working in harmony to revive the delicate eye area without overwhelming it. It layers beautifully under concealer, doesn't pill and won't irritate even the most sensitive skin. Plus, it's affordable enough to repurchase without flinching, which feels like a small luxury in a world where eye creams can cost more than a fancy dinner out. This isn't the kind of product that screams for attention; it quietly earns your loyalty with every early morning and late night. It's effortlessly effective, refreshingly straightforward and perfectly designed for real life. The silky texture is unbelievable, and it leaves an impressive glow that's worth screaming about (seriously). Best Blush: Versed Shade Swipe Blush Stick Versed Pros: Simple to apply with a brush or your fingers Best for travel Leaves your skin with a long-lasting flush of color Cons: Plastic cover sometimes becomes filled with product, though not a dealbreaker The Versed Shade Swipe Blush Stick is the blush BFF I never knew I needed. First off, the formula is a dream: creamy, lightweight and melts seamlessly into my skin, giving me that 'just pinched' flush without any staining or clown-face vibes. It's buildable, too. You can go from a whisper of rosy glow to a deep, camera-ready flush in a few swipes. It's truly so creamy, dreamy buildable and blendable, and that it breathes new life into my fair skin. However, its variety of shades complement any skin tone. In short: swipe, blend, blend and voilà — cheeks that look alive and effortlessly gorgeous. Now let's talk multitasking hustle. This chubby stick doubles as a lip tint or soft eyelid wash when you're going for that cute monochrome moment. Plus, it's clean (no fragrance or alcohol), full of skin-friendly emollients like caprylic triglyceride and coco-caprylate and priced less than $20. All in all, it's one my makeup bag needs at all time. Victoria Giardina Pros: Creamy finish 'The perfect nude pink lipstick' Cons: Packaging could be better, compared to some others tested For those who want to save money and have an everyday, pinky nude lipstick, run to L'Oreal Paris Glow Paradise Hydrating Balm-in-Lipstick with Pomegranate Extract (specifically, the shade '110 Pastel Exaltation'). Much to my delight, it measured up to some high-end lipsticks I've tried, its creaminess on-par with some $20 and $30 options in my makeup bag. The L'Oréal Paris Glow Paradise Hydrating Balm‑in‑Lipstick stands out as the ultimate nude lipstick thanks to its buttery balm-meets-pigment formula: infused with pomegranate extract, it delivers immediate hydration and a healthy, glassy sheen, yet still offers buildable color that flatters diverse skin tones. While the packaging could be more secure, the beauty lies in the formulation. It's worth every penny, and a good pick-me-up if you're seeking that nude-pink hybrid. How I tested An assortment of the beauty products I tested — all under $25. Victoria Giardina Ahead, here's the criteria for how I tested each beauty item under $25: Effectiveness: I evaluated how well each product delivered on its claims (including hydration, coverage and longevity). I evaluated how well each product delivered on its claims (including hydration, coverage and longevity). Ingredients: I reviewed the ingredient list for safety, quality and the presence of any potentially irritating or harmful substances. I reviewed the ingredient list for safety, quality and the presence of any potentially irritating or harmful substances. Application & Texture: I assessed how smoothly the product applied, absorbed or blended into my skin or hair. I assessed how smoothly the product applied, absorbed or blended into my skin or hair. Wear Time: I monitored how long the product lasted throughout the day under typical conditions, like heat, sweat and movement. I monitored how long the product lasted throughout the day under typical conditions, like heat, sweat and movement. Value for Price: I compared the overall performance and quantity of each product relative to its price, ensuring it offered good quality within the $25 budget. This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
