Below is an update on my post op journey since many people have been curious of my health situation.  

The diagnosis of my brain tumor took over a year with Constant  lab test, scans , doctor visits etc before I was cleared for surgery 4/28/21.   Now 9 months post op I currently am in the same boat with the long process of figuring out all my new health issues.  I was so excited to have my tumor removed and start feeling better, but unfortunately the doctors were right when they told me I could deal with a lot of other health issues post op. Thankfully these issues can be treated with medication unlike the tumor. I am still so thankful to have been able to fly out of state to be in the hands of some of the best neurologist. The process has just been exhausting to say the least. 

Its very common after anyone has this surgery to need post op hormone replacement medication, but they hope by 6 months you will start producing on your own again.  My tumor was invasive causing my pituitary to now be damaged. I unfortunately am still deficient in all my hormones and my doctors stated I could need life long replacement medication. I wish i could feel like I did before the tumor but I’m trying to stay positive and figure out this new life with a chronic disease. I am currently working with some great local doctors that are figuring out the best treatment plan to help with all the side effects that come along with now being (panhypopituitarism)deficient in hormones the pituitary produces. 

I recently had a post op MRI of the brain. The radiologist stated they saw a small residual tumor and a mass in the sphenoid. After having my surgeons review the MRI they did not agree with the report, stating no tumor is seen and the mass in sphenoid is scar tissue from surgery. So I will have a follow up MRI in a few months to make sure they don’t see any changes. 🙏🏻

I am told I have a 50-70 percent chance of a recurrence with my tumor, but I am hopeful I will stay in remission.  I also have faith I will start feeling better once I am on the right replacement treatments.  I am so thankfully for the continued thoughts and prayers from everyone.
This past year has been some of the most difficult things I have gone through but also some of the best.  Scott and I were able to have a beautiful wedding and our family moved into a new home! We are excited to start new adventures and have a year with positive healing and health.  I feel so lucky to have my boys by my side and the best husband who has been the best caregiver I could ask for. We are so appreciative of the support our family and friends have shown us.  We can’t thank you all enough! ❤️

love,
Heidi

* I also would like to rally all my prayer warriors!!!

Two of my friends, Elisha and Jen have recently been diagnosed with cancer.  I please ask for continued thoughts and prayers while they both start their journey with chemo and radiation this month.  ❤️‍🩹🙏🏻Thank you!