Acoustic Neuroma: The Research

A Motivational Story

The AN Stories I Read Didn't Reassure Me

acoustic_neuroma The acoustic neuroma diagnosis left me emotionally overwhelmed. I left my doctor's office with plenty to think about. I researched the Internet to learn more about brain tumors. I purposely sought to read about other people's experiences. As I started reading, my fear increased to a level I never thought possible. Story after story was negative. Luckily, my doctor connected me with a former patient who experienced favorable results. Additionally, I subscribed to the The Acoustic Neuroma Association's Monthly Newsletter. Thankfully this newsletter balanced both positive and negative stories. I highly recommend this Association for anyone dealing with this type of brain tumor.

The Dry Peanut Butter and The Spaghetti Noodle

Fortunately, my brain tumor was small (around the size of a pea) and located on my right hearing nerve. After exploring the options, I decided to have microscopic brain surgery. The surgical procedure I chose meant sacrificing the remaining hearing in my right ear. For me, it was more important to lessen the risk of side-effects. You see, my doctor described the procedure comparable to removing a small lump of dry peanut butter from a wet spaghetti noodle which helped me understand the delicate nature of the surgery. Fortunately, my doctor is known as one of the best in his field. I made sure to do my homework, because I wanted someone with a very good success rate.

I Felt Like Rocky Balboa Preparing For The Fight of My Life

I waited five months before having microscopic brain surgery. During this time, I worked on my personal growth - spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. My strategy was to enter acoustic neuroma surgery with a positive frame of mind as healthy as I could be. Gathering my resolve, I mentally prepared my mind to think in terms of a full recovery. I prayed more than I ever had in my entire life and focused on my goal. I would be lying if I said it was easy. It wasn't, but I was determined. As a student of self improvement, I relied on every concept and positive motivational tactic I could find.

I was still a little afraid and nervous about my outcome, but that did not stop me. As crazy as it may sound, I started to develop a different perspective of my life. I started to view my acoustic neuroma experience as a blessing, because it forced me to take a hard look at myself.

I Remember Nothing of the Surgery

On the day of my surgery, I mustered courage to see it through. Thankfully, the last thing I remember prior to the surgery was being wheeled into the operating room. The next thing I recall is groggily regaining consciousness in the intensive care unit (This is standard practice after brain surgery). It was strange, I felt a little pain, but the moans and groans of a man across from me caused me more concern for him than I felt for myself. Even as I write this, I can empathize with his pain. How blessed I felt in comparison.