Life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. For me, that surprise came in 2018. Up until then, everything was perfect: a wonderful marriage, four amazing kids, a fulfilling career, and the kind of happiness you only dream about. Then, out of nowhere, life threw me a curveball.
I was diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma, a rare primary brain tumor located near the pituitary stalk. I had always been healthy—so where on earth did this come from? It felt like my entire world was flipped upside down. But as I’ve come to realize, even in the face of challenges, life offers us the opportunity to rise above.
A New Battle: My First Surgery
In 2019, I underwent transsphenoidal surgery to remove the tumor. While the surgery was successful, the tumor had destroyed my pituitary gland, and it had to be removed as well. Adjusting to life after surgery wasn’t easy, but I focused on recovery with the support of my family, friends, and faith.
Just when I thought I was in the clear, life delivered another curveball. Almost three years later, the tumor was back in the same place. Once again, I found myself preparing for a battle I thought I had already won.
The Second Round: A Craniotomy
In January 2023, I underwent a craniotomy to remove the tumor for the second time. Recovery was grueling, but my determination never wavered. I leaned on my support system and faith to keep me grounded and hopeful. I thought to myself, I’ve beaten this once; I can beat it again.
But life had other plans.
The Third Challenge: Proton Beam Therapy
This stubborn tumor returned for a third time. As I write this, I’m in the midst of a six-week course of proton beam therapy, hoping this will be the treatment that finally eradicates it for good. Despite everything, I refuse to let this thing win. I’ve beaten it twice before, and I am determined to win this fight once and for all.
Finding Strength in Faith and Family
When I was first diagnosed, I used to ask, Why me? But over time, my perspective shifted. Maybe I was chosen to face this challenge because I’m strong enough to fight it. I’ve even thought, If this had to happen to someone in my family, I’d want it to be me. I couldn’t bear to see my wife or kids go through this. In a way, my prayers have been answered—I’ve taken this burden so they don’t have to.
My faith has been my anchor through this journey. It helps me find peace in the chaos and strength when I feel weak. My family, friends, and coworkers have been an incredible support system, cheering me on every step of the way. Together, they remind me why this fight is worth it.
Ready for Whatever Comes Next
Life can keep throwing curveballs at me because I’m ready. I’ve got my bat pointed to the right-field boxes, and I’m swinging for the fences. This tumor may have tested me, but it hasn’t beaten me. I’m determined to turn every challenge into a home run and show that no matter how tough the fight, hope and resilience can carry you through.To anyone else facing a similar battle: keep fighting. You are stronger than you realize, and there’s always hope. Life may throw you curveballs, but it’s up to you to hit them out of the park.
