My daughter has a brain tumor :( (page 9)

hubert

(((((Brenda and Lena))))) We'll be praying for a good outcome.

From Hubert and family.

outnfree

Well, I can't sleep! What is this with me waking up at 4 AM?

The latest: Lena has a brain lesion. Irradiation is out because of the size -- it's too large. My neurosurgeon, Dr. R., referred us to another who specializes in basal skull surgery, so I will set up an appointment today. We are also getting an ultrasound to rule out metastastic (sp?) tumor from uterine cancer. That last is a very small possibility, but must be ruled out. The good news is that the location of the tumor is good: It is situated between her frontal and temporal lobes so Dr. R thought no cutting through her brain would be necessary. However, he was hestitant to say much else, preferring to leave the details and even the probable location of the incision (bone removal for access ?) to Dr. G.

Since I trust Dr. R, and he assured us that Dr. G a) does these operations very frequently, and b) is a "talker" in that he will explain everything nicely to us, I am gratified that neither ego and nor greed led him to attempt the surgery himself. He is truly a healer -- a compassionate, dedicated guy. And my GP is great, too. She called to check in with us yesterday afternoon, too. :)

So, off to research brain lesions... since I'm up.

Love to all,

Brenda

LittleToe

Morning Brenda,

I'm glad to hear there's some progress, and that things might be resolved soon.
You both continue in my prayers.

(((hugs)))

candidlynuts

basal skull surgery

what does that term mean?

glad to hear of progress as well and your family is (are?) still in my prayers. hugs

Been there

Brenda,

Welcome to the 4am club! I'm glad things are starting to move forward for you and your daughter. It is so scarry I know. My prayers are with you all. I am so happy to hear that you have Dr.'s that you trust with your life because it makes a world of difference in recovery.

pettygrudger

(((Brenda)))

You know I'm here - love you.

Jesika

(((((((Brenda)))))))) and ((((((((daughter)))))))

I am so sorry and you are in my thoughts........hope all turns out ok for you and your family. I love you.

Love,

Jes

SixofNine

Hi (((Brenda))) that sounds hopeful! Take care.

outnfree

Candidly --

Basal skull surgery is surgery performed at the base of the skull in the area where the brain stem and spine come together. Dr. R. usually only operates on gliomas, which are the most common type of brain tumors. I guess Lena's brain lesion is uncommon. On the one hand the location will prevent having to cut through her brain, apparently the neurosurgeon will be able to lift her frontal and temporal lobes apart and go in from there. However, in looking at the MRI and CT images, it appears the lesion is near the center of the brain, near the brain stem, thus the involvement of Dr. G. who is more expert at removing tumors from that sensitive area.

The ultrasounds are done and the report should be to Dr. G on Monday morning, which is when we have an appointment scheduled.

I'm finding it difficult to sleep tonight, but at least I got a good rest last night with the help of some Tylenol PM. (OTC form of mother's little helper? )

I really, really appreciate the support from you wonderful people and will be sure to keep you posted as more information becomes available. I am terrified, yet hopeful. Lena is young, strong, and positive. I am trying to be old, strong and positive. She has good friends who are providing great support. She has gotten flowers, teddy bears and other gifts as well as visits from friends who have not yet returned to college. And one friend who returned to school nearby last Monday is here tonight visiting with her, he came home for the weekend to spend time with her. I have some pretty nice friends, too, here and locally who have been great. I am getting better at asking for support and not being the stoic, stuff-down-the-emotion-when-it-comes-to-my-own-stuff person I was raised to be. So thanks to all for letting me be authentically scared.

Love,

Brenda

seeitallclearlynow

Thanks for letting us know how you and your daughter are doing, Brenda! And I'm glad the steps are being taken and everything is moving along. I look forward to hearing what happens at your appointment Monday. I hope for the very best for a successful surgery.

((((Brenda and Lena))))

My daughter has a brain tumor :(

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