Frank Browne
Final Approach
Well, this will be a significant week for me. I'm going into the hospital on Thursday morning for a little neurosurgery to reduce the size of a tumor that is once again threatening my optic nerves. This will be the second time I've had this surgery. The first time was in '01, and when I was first diagnosed in April of that year the tumor was 3 cm in size, and had already done some damage to my vision. In fact, it was an optometrist that discovered it from the results of a vision field test. At that time, it was nearly an emergency procedure because it had surrounded the carotid arteries as well. I've been having annual MRI's since then, and in '05 it was showing renewed growth. But that was during a period of serious upheaval in my life, and frankly, I didn't much care whether I got treatment or not. Things are different now, and I have a new doctor (several actually) and I like this guy a lot! He has been extremely forthcoming with information and he has been answering all of my questions even before I ask them. As I said, this surgery is to reduce the tumor, not remove it. Currently it is 1 millimeter from the optic nerves. The curative procedure will actually be a gamma knife treatment. That will happen 1-3 months following surgery.
So, I'm kinda excited about it really. My doctor is very positive about at least beating it back far enough so that I don't have to worry about it for many, many years. I'm also excited at the prospect of a few weeks off work! The last time I had 2 weeks in a row off was the last time I had this surgery! So, beginning Thursday morning, I'll be off the forums for a few days. Sleeping in every day...what a concept!
So, I'm kinda excited about it really. My doctor is very positive about at least beating it back far enough so that I don't have to worry about it for many, many years. I'm also excited at the prospect of a few weeks off work! The last time I had 2 weeks in a row off was the last time I had this surgery! So, beginning Thursday morning, I'll be off the forums for a few days. Sleeping in every day...what a concept!