ANA Discussion Forum

General Category => AN Issues => Topic started by: knakag01 on January 07, 2010, 08:47:10 pm

Title: Surgery it is!
Post by: knakag01 on January 07, 2010, 08:47:10 pm
Hello all,

Well, my family and I met with Dr. Jackler at Stanford the day before yesterday and I have decided that surgery (translab) is the best option for me. I am not very comfortable with radiation itself or with leaving the "dead" tumer in my head. I feel like I'd be happier knowing it was out.

I will not be having the surgery for a few months, most likely beginning of May. We are going to Maui in late April and since I don't know what side effects surgery will bring, I'd like to have my tropical vacation beforehand  8)

My family, partner, and I felt very comfortable with Dr. Jackler. He took his time explaining, in detail, the Acoustic Neuroma and all of the options available to me. He answered all of our questions thouroughly and was actually quite more personable than I expected. I am confident this is the right choice for me as I really feel a peace about it now. I'm sure as surgery nears I'll have some worries, but overall I feel at peace.

I really must thank all of you who have provided me with information, support and encouragement. It is so comforting to read the posts here and know I am not alone. I hope that someday I can do the same for others who are new to the forum.

Kim
Title: Re: Surgery it is!
Post by: leapyrtwins on January 07, 2010, 09:02:00 pm
Kim -

congratulations on making your treatment decision - not an easy task.

It sounds like you found a doctor you are very happy with and that's not always an easy task either.

Please let us know when you have a surgery date so we can put it on the AN Calendar - and have a great time in Maui.  I haven't been there in years and I'm very jealous  :(

Jan
Title: Re: Surgery it is!
Post by: sgerrard on January 07, 2010, 10:40:07 pm
Dr. Jackler? I've heard of him. :)

The hard part is over now, just put it on cruise control and see where you wind up.

Best wishes.

Steve
Title: Re: Surgery it is!
Post by: Pooter on January 08, 2010, 12:30:38 am
Kim,

Congrats on a treatment decision!  I agree that going on vacation first rather than dealing with the unknown with what should be a fun vacation..  In fact, you can sit on the beach for Donnalynn, but drink a Mai Tai for me while you're there!  Relax and enjoy yourself as the hardest part of the jouney (decision on treatment) is over..

In fact, my two year ANniversary will be May 8th..

Congrats!

Brian
Title: Re: Surgery it is!
Post by: lawmama on January 08, 2010, 07:48:47 am
Kim,

Congratulations on your decision.  I  know it was not an easy one to make, but I am happy to hear that you have a peace about it.  I felt the same way after I had made my treatment decision. 

It sounds like a great idea to wait until after your vacation.  That is one of the good things about these tumors- they normally aren't "emergency" situations and we have the luxury of scheduling treatment when it is most convenient.  I wish you the best of luck for your surgery and I go and enjoy your life until then!

Lyn
Title: Re: Surgery it is!
Post by: Jim Scott on January 08, 2010, 03:34:28 pm
Kim ~

Congratulations on reaching a treatment decision.  You're in good hands and in many respects, the hard part is now over.  Enjoy Maui! 

Jim
Title: Re: Surgery it is!
Post by: pjb on January 08, 2010, 08:55:52 pm
Congratulations on your decision and definitely enjoy your vacation.

Best Wishes,

Pat