My rat has a tumor and I don't know what to do. Help?

My rat is a year or two old and I noticed a couple months ago that she was developing this large tumor on her side in front of her left leg. It's pretty large, but I looked it up and it said I had to go to a vet to remove it from her. But money is extremely tight and I can't afford it being only sixteen and having no job..I asked my mom if maybe she could drain it with a syringe because she's a nurse, but she says she doesn't recommend it. Many sites say that if I decide not to get it removed I should euthanize her. I don't want to lose her and I don't want her to suffer. :( Any help?