by Lisa Annunziata
It’s been a long time, but not long enough to forget the moment I heard the words, “You have a brain tumor.” The details of that day are etched in my memory: the brightness of the sun shining through the window, the sudden stop of my breath, and the immediate need to plan my next steps. That moment changed everything for me. I’m now an 18-year survivor of a mixed glial tumor, what we once called an oligoastrocytoma, and while I’ve come a long way, I still feel the weight of every MRI and every check-up, waiting for that call.
Life After Brain Tumor Diagnosis
Despite the lingering worry, I’ve learned to focus on what truly matters in life: my family, my health, and living fully each day. My diagnosis is something I respect, and I pay close attention to my body’s signals. I listen carefully to my neurosurgeon and keep track of any changes, knowing that vigilance is key. While brain tumor survival brings unique challenges, it’s also brought clarity and a new appreciation for life.
At one point, I tried joining a tumor therapy group. However, I felt out of place, as many members were dealing with more severe physical impacts than I was. This left me feeling guilty, so I found my own path to healing. I focused on strengthening my mind and body, and accepted my “new normal.”
Finding Support in My Family and Pets
My family has been my rock throughout this journey. Their unconditional love and support have given me the strength to keep moving forward. They remind me to push through challenges, like balancing issues when walking down the stairs at a baseball game. I like that they don’t treat me as different, but they’re always ready to catch me if I stumble.
Our pets have also played a vital role in my healing process. My cat has been a constant source of comfort, acting as my therapy pet, while our Dalmatian, Daisy, keeps me active. She’s my daily reminder to “move more,” a simple but powerful motivator for staying physically strong.
Two Surgeries and a Lifetime of Gratitude
It’s been a long time since my two surgeries—one to remove the tumor and another for shunt placement. I vividly remember the pre-op room and the patient next to me, who thought I must be famous because of all the people around me. When I told him I had a brain tumor, he said he would pray for me. I have never forgotten his kindness.
The support from strangers, the love of my family, and the loyalty of my pets have been critical in my recovery. My friendships have deepened, and I’ve realized just how blessed I am. As my 9-year-old once said when I returned home from the hospital, “Mom, you’re built tough.” Those words stay with me, a reminder of my strength and resilience.
Moving Forward: Every Moment Counts
While I still face moments of worry during every MRI, I have shifted my focus to living life with purpose. I no longer dwell on the “what ifs” but instead choose to embrace every moment with the people who matter most. Every decision I make, every step I take is rooted in the knowledge that my time was almost cut short. That perspective changes everything.
This journey has taught me the importance of gratitude, love, and perseverance. I’m dedicated to paying forward the kindness and prayers I received. I will never forget the strangers who lifted me up, my family who has stood by me, and the friends who have become more like family. I’m here, I’m thriving, and I’m thankful for every day.
For anyone facing a brain tumor diagnosis, know that hope, resilience, and a strong support system can help you navigate the challenges ahead. Keep moving forward, and never lose sight of what truly matters.
