Musician to Undergo Awake Brain Surgery November 6
The procedure will address a growing brain lesion in a 31-year-old patient.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Stroke
Jake Luppen is scheduled for a six-hour craniotomy on November 6 to address a brain lesion near the basal ganglia. The 31-year-old musician, known for his work with the band Hippo Campus, previously experienced symptoms identified as focal seizures.
Why it matters
The surgery is considered the best route to recovery because the lesion's proximity to the basal ganglia makes a standard biopsy too dangerous. This procedure is necessary after a summer 2026 scan revealed growth in a lesion that was first detected in 2019.
A 2019 MRI identified a nine-millimeter lesion, which remained stable until a summer 2026 scan confirmed it had grown. The suspected condition is a stage two glioma, though the specific biological nature remains under investigation pending tissue removal.
The players
Jake Luppen
A 31-year-old musician currently managing a brain lesion near the basal ganglia.
Hippo Campus
A musical group scheduled for a final performance in Saint Paul prior to a member's surgery.
The details
The upcoming six-hour craniotomy requires the patient to remain awake during the surgery. This approach allows neurosurgeons to safely access the lesion located near the basal ganglia while monitoring neurological function. Surgeons intend to remove as much of the mass as possible to facilitate accurate testing and treatment.
Timeline
The initial brain lesion was identified via MRI in 2019.
A routine scan confirmed the lesion had grown in summer 2026.
Hippo Campus will perform a final concert in Saint Paul on October 19, 2026.
The scheduled six-hour brain surgery will occur on November 6, 2026.
Health Landscape
This procedure aligns with the established clinical standard for awake craniotomy in gliomas located near functional brain areas. The approach reflects a broader neurosurgical trend of balancing aggressive lesion removal with the preservation of neurological and cognitive function.
This case highlights the importance of monitoring persistent symptoms like focal seizures or panic-like episodes with a neurologist. Any concerns regarding brain health or unexplained neurological symptoms should be discussed directly with a physician to determine if imaging is warranted.
The takeaway
Luppen is expected to be unable to play music for a few months following the procedure. If you have been diagnosed with a brain lesion, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of various surgical or monitoring strategies.
Further reading
For more information on the management of neurological health conditions, visit our Stroke section.
