My journey began in 2008, when I was diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor. It was a shock to me and to my family. Because the tumor was small in size, the doctors recommended a wait-and-see approach for the time being. Several years went by with annual MRIs. Then, in 2014, I learned that my tumor had doubled in size. With a lot of mixed emotions and thoughts racing through my mind, I was faced with important decisions. I knew that I needed to know and understand more about the meningioma. The toughest part was not having the tumor but deciding what would be the best way to attack the tumor.
I was truly blessed to have been directed to the Brain Tumor Network. With open arms and kind hearts, the Brain Tumor Network staff embraced me with so much support, love, and tons of valuable information. With the information and resources they were able to provide to me, I was able to make MY decision on the best course of treatment. I was able to have several different options made known to me that I otherwise would have never known about. For this, I am truly grateful. With these other options, I was able to decide upon the treatment with the least amount of residual side effects, which I felt the most comfortable with.
One of the resources Brain Tumor Network also made known was a local support group that holds monthly meetings that are helpful to both patients and family members. It is beneficial in so many ways to be able to hear and share and draw strength from others’ personal experiences and stories.
Brain Tumor Network, thank you for embracing me and walking with me through my journey. No words can explain what I feel in my heart for the support and love that was expressed to me during such an emotional time of decision-making, and ultimately through my surgery for the removal of my tumor. Truly you’re God’s angels on this earth! I have a lot to be thankful for.