Most of you know I have a benign brain tumor (Meningioma). It is a skull base tumor located in the left Sphenoid Wing and Cavernous Sinus. For 11 years I have been on "wait and watch" (I wait, God watches). Eleven years ago it was thought to be inoperable and radiation was offered. I declined.
Recently I traveled to Baltimore and met with the Chief of Neurosurgery at John Hopkins Hospital. There has been new growth and the recommendation was that I have surgery before it does more damage to my optic nerve. The other option was to wait and possibly lose my eyesight in my left eye within 6 months to a year. With growth the increase of a stroke rises as well. They will have to leave a small piece in the Cavernous Sinus as it would be too difficult to remove. If this remaining piece grows in the future it could be addressed with radiation. The Chief of Neurosurgery will be performing the surgery (Craniotomy) Tuesday November 21. It can take anywhere from 5 to 10 hours. After surgery I will be in ICU for one to two nights and then will be placed in a private room where once I eat and move around they will discharge me to the hotel. (2-3 days) I'm hoping Thanksgiving morning. Jennifer (my daughter) and her husband Bob will be there with me. Jennifer will be updating on this site for those that would like to follow. My sister, Teresa, will be coming to relieve Jennifer and Bob for a week. They ask that I remain in Baltimore until my follow up appointment where they will remove the staples and then give me permission to travel (they normally estimate 10 days after surgery). If I'm not released and able to travel back with my sister, George (my son) will come and stay until I am released. Please pray that this goes as smooth as the doctor is expecting. Recovery normally takes anywhere from 6 weeks to a few months.
God always has a plan and I am just a part of the journey. He does not make mistakes and He will make a way.
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