13 days

It's only 13 more days until the big day. I can't believe how much I am looking forward to getting this over with. For the longest time this tumor has seemed surreal, but the closer I get to the date of surgery, the more real it is getting. I hope I don't have a major breakdown/reality check the morning of.
I've noticed that I haven't been able to sit around and do nothing like I used to. I used to be satisfied to sit around and watch TV in the evenings, even if there wasn't anything worth watching. Now I have the need to fill these evenings with worthwhile projects or running errands. Monday night Mary Ann and I picked out a new recliner and last night I built another dresser that we got at Ikea. I still have cakes to bake for my parents 50th wedding anniversary party. Hopefully I will be in the mood to do that soon.

My Brain

The last few months have been interesting to say the least. I haven't been able to ride as much as I've wanted to because of a distraction. After hearing tests, a CT, an MRI and consultations with a surgeon, I've been diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor. It is a benign tumor and my surgery to get it removed is Sept. 1. Even though there are quite a bit of unpleasant scenarios that can happen if all doesn't go well during the surgery, I feel very positive that it will be a success. I have a lot of confidence in my surgeon and am very lucky that I live so close to The Ohio State Medical Center. I also feel fortunate that my symptoms aren't as extreme as so many others with this diagnosis. I noticed a loss of hearing in one ear and after testing they found the tumor. I also have some dizziness and blurred vision when reading smaller print.

So it looks like I will have a lot of time in Sept. for blog entries. The surgeon says I will need to stay home from work 4-5 weeks. I already have books on cd reserved at the library. I guess I can also catch up on some bad afternoon tv.

My family and friends have been very supportive and I love and appreciate them dearly. I'm including a picture from the MRI. This shot is taken from the perspective of looking up from my chin. I've tried to draw around the tumor. When I see the surgeon next I hope to remember to ask him if I can have a picture of the tumor.