by Justine LaClair
Facing a brain tumor diagnosis is a challenge I never expected, but my story is one of resilience, hope, and determination. In 2013, I had a large meningioma removed, along with a portion of my skull. My journey taught me about advanced medical techniques, the power of positivity, and how to embrace life with a stubborn will to succeed.
The Diagnosis and Surgery
In 2013, I was diagnosed with a meningioma, a type of brain tumor. Fortunately, it was not cancerous, but the tumor had grown veins that were drawing blood from my brain, posing serious risks. My neurosurgeon, Dr. Steinberger of Mt. Sinai Hospital, carefully cauterized these veins during surgery to prevent potential brain bleeds.
The surgery involved removing a portion of my skull, which was replaced with titanium. While the thought of such a procedure was daunting, I felt reassured by my surgeon’s expertise and the advanced techniques he used.
A Fascinating Approach: The Cell-Saver Technique
One aspect of my surgery that stood out was my surgeon’s commitment to avoiding a blood transfusion. Dr. Steinberger explained that skipping a transfusion would:
- Accelerate my healing process.
- Reduce the risk of infection or bloodborne diseases.
- Eliminate the possibility of my body rejecting foreign blood.
To achieve this, he used a cell-saver device, which recycled any blood I lost during surgery. This innovative approach allowed me to recover faster and with fewer risks.
Learning about the potential dangers of blood transfusions was eye-opening. The experience gave me a new appreciation for the precision and care involved in modern brain surgery.
Recovery: Challenges and Milestones
After the surgery, my body and mind needed time to heal. I experienced hallucinations of sweet animals, felt unsteady, and had occasional migraines and focal seizures. Despite these challenges, I trusted my body’s ability to recover.
An MRI after surgery revealed a second tumor, as small as a pea and calcified. While this tumor isn’t causing any harm for now, my doctors are monitoring it closely. It serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing care and vigilance.
Lessons Learned
This journey taught me more than just the mechanics of brain surgery—it transformed my perspective on life and health:
- Advances in Medicine: The techniques used in my surgery, like the cell-saver device, showcase how far modern medicine has come.
- Compassion for Others: Experiencing a serious health condition deepened my empathy for others facing similar challenges.
- Faith and Positivity: Maintaining a positive attitude and strong faith were key to navigating my recovery.
I’ve also learned to live with a sense of stubborn determination. When someone tells me I can’t do something, I simply say, “Watch me!”
Moving Forward
Today, I continue to live with gratitude for the doctors, nurses, and medical advancements that saved my life. My story reminds me—and hopefully you—that even in the face of uncertainty, hope can carry us through.
Thank you for letting me share my journey. I hope it inspires you to meet your own challenges head-on, with courage, faith, and a dash of stubbornness.
