Attorney’s Sudden Fainting Spells Reveal Large Brain Tumor

Nate Broughty, a Houston, Texas attorney known online as “Nate The Lawyer,” experienced a series of frightening fainting spells last fall that ultimately led to the discovery of a large brain tumor. Broughty, 48, initially attributed his symptoms to fatigue or the flu, but a sudden collapse even as recording a social media clip prompted further investigation.

A Mysterious Onset of Symptoms

Broughty described a disorienting experience preceding the fainting spells, stating, “I don’t know how to explain it, but it’s like you’re watching yourself from outside your body. You don’t know what’s going on, what to do.” He also experienced increasing blurriness and severe headaches that began around November 2025.

Urgent Care and a Shocking Diagnosis

After visiting urgent care, initial vital signs and basic tests appeared normal. However, Broughty fainted again while being examined by a doctor. A subsequent CT scan revealed a “huge mass” in his head, according to physicians. Further MRI scans revealed the tumor was approximately half the size of his head, significantly larger than the initial estimate of a golf ball.

15-Hour Surgery and a Meningioma Diagnosis

Broughty underwent a 15-hour surgery to remove the tumor, fearing potential cognitive impairment. Fortunately, he emerged from the operation with his cognition and memories intact. Tests confirmed the tumor was a meningioma, the most common type of primary brain tumor, which originates in the meninges—the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord National Brain Tumor Society. Meningiomas typically grow slowly American Cancer Society.

Grade 2 Meningioma and Unexpected Recovery

Initially diagnosed as a grade 2 meningioma—borderline between cancerous and benign—the tumor had likely been growing for years. The tumor’s size was causing significant pressure on his brain, leading to the symptoms he experienced. Remarkably, after surgery, follow-up scans three months later showed no evidence of remaining tumor cells. Doctors theorize his immune system may have eliminated the remaining cells and further testing indicated the tumor was closer to a grade 1, or mostly benign.

Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments

Broughty continues to be monitored with regular scans and is adjusting to life after the ordeal. The removal of the large mass has created a cavity in his skull, leading to dizziness and increased susceptibility to concussions. He notes, “The brain hasn’t fully expanded to fill up my skull…It has that free space. So it makes me extremely susceptible to concussions.”

A Difficult Year for the Family

Broughty’s health challenges came just three months after his wife received a breast cancer diagnosis, making it a particularly difficult year for the family.

Understanding Meningiomas

Meningiomas can affect individuals of any age, and the exact cause remains unknown. Common symptoms include headaches, seizures, vision changes, and loss of hearing or smell National Brain Tumor Society.