John Harper

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Dear Family and Friends,
 
Many of you may know that there is a history of aneurysm in my family. My mother had a debilitating aneurysm when she was 39. Luckily, Mom made a full recovery. However other siblings suffered strokes and  one died suddenly from a ruptured brain aneurysm.
 
Given the family history, I began a screening process almost fifteen years ago with the help of my medical care team at Brigham & Women's Hospital. After a recent CT follow-up, it was determined that a previously monitored group of veins had changed significantly. I was informed that over time, the percentages only increase that this fistula will rupture and cause a stroke.
 
 
My specialist recommended treatment without delay. Fortunately this fistula is located on the covering of the brain, as opposed to inside the brain itself, so a less invasive type of brain surgery is how the procedure has been described to me.
 
I am so grateful to have the health care that is giving me this chance to avert a future catastrophe and much worse outcome. 
 
The surgery to excise the fistula will be Tuesday, May 31st, followed by a hospital stay for 3 or 4 days, and a home recovery of about 6 weeks. 
 
Thank you to everyone for your concern and well wishes. Already we can feel the outreach of support from our local community and dear friends.