I had no idea I was walking around with a brain tumor. All these years I thought I was having sinus issues with the headaches and neck aches until one day I could no longer laugh because the pain was excruciating.
So, I saw a neurologist who had ordered CAT and MRI scans. Originally, the radiologist said there was a possibility of a malignant tumor, so I was referred to a neurosurgeon. I had surgery on March 4, 2020, for removal, and a biopsy showed it was a hemangioblastoma, which is a benign tumor. It was located in the left cerebellum.
However, after a post-op MRI, this particular neurosurgeon did not remove the entire tumor. Not to worry, they said, because he ordered Gamma radiation, which will kill the tumor. I met THE BEST oncologist for the Gamma Rays; however, in December 2020, the headaches came back. I was floored to find out that the Gamma Ray did not work.
I called the oncologist, who talked with another neurosurgeon who specializes in hemangioblastoma, and saw him within the week. Long story short, I went back into surgery to have the grape-sized hemangioblastoma removed, and this time they placed Gamma seeds in the tumor bed. I was the third patient in the state of Florida to have the Gamma seeds procedure. The second neurosurgeon successfully removed the tumor, and with the Gamma Seed radiation (lost all my hair – it’s just hair and grows back), I am now on the five-year MRI plan.
I thank God for the second neurosurgeon and the oncologist. Lesson learned before surgery: ALWAYS get a second opinion. The first neurosurgeon had several magazine write-ups, and I was told he was a good neurosurgeon. Perhaps he is, but not for the type of brain tumor I had.
Not being able to laugh was very hard for me. I knew something was wrong. But here I am with all my hair (it came back curly and super thick), laughing, and living my best life! The picture I am sharing is from the first surgery. There is life after a brain tumor, but know it can be a difficult road.
