My cancer journey began in 2021, when I experienced a partial seizure while flying a helicopter. I could not speak, and I had numbness and tingling on the right side of my body. Fortunately, there was a second pilot who was able to safely land the helicopter. I had a second seizure with the exact same symptoms before doctors identified a mass on the left side of my brain. A biopsy revealed a grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma.
I never expected anything like this to happen to me. My family and I felt extremely lost. Fortunately, one of my friends referred me to Brain Tumor Network. Brain Tumor Network was extremely helpful when I was trying to understand my disease. They also gave me essential guidance on treatment options and facilitated second opinions for me.
Since my initial contact with Brain Tumor Network, I have had two more successful surgeries, radiation, and my first cycle of chemotherapy. I have had an amazing support network in my family, girlfriend, friends, medical providers, and my Brain Tumor Network nurse navigators, Jenna and Meghan. I am hopeful about my future, and I highly recommend others in a similar situation to seek support from Brain Tumor Network.
