Firefighter/Paramedic

In the summer of 2013 I started to notice that I was suffering from headaches quite often. I was becoming accustomed too taking 800 mg of nsaids daily. My symptoms started to get worse with dizziness and blurred vision. I had recently graduated from paramedic school and was feeling pretty good about myself for once.

I finally started to feel really bad with neck pain and severe pain when I would stand up. I went multiple times to my physician only to receive muscle relaxers and was told to see someone in physical therapy. Finally one Sunday before my shift as a security guard, because it was the only job I could tolerate at this time due to chronic pain, my wife drove me to the city.

I arrived in the ER of Mercy medical center in horrible pain. The Doctor at the time grabbed a otoscope and checked my pupils. He looked alarmed…….. the next few hours where very scary. I was told I had a brain tumor so large it shifted my brain over. At that moment I requested my Pastor and prayed that I would be ok.

My wife remained strong. Little did I know my life was about to change for the better. I was rushed into emergency surgery were a Very talented surgeon was waiting to save my life. I said the Lords pray with my family and pastor before the sedative ok effect. I awoke in ICU……….. I survived and remembered something I heard Sylvester Stallone said. It’s not how hard you can hit, but how hard you can get hit and get back up. I spent months recovering and regaining strength.

My story may not be to unique, but remember this tomorrow is promised to no one. Take nothing for granted, and smile a little more. Gods blessings to those who have survived and to those who are currently in the battle.

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Opinions expressed within this story belong solely to the author and do not reflect the views or opinions of the National Brain Tumor Society.