Hello everyone,
I know that there are quite a few who have completed GK or CK recently and are experiencing some issues and anxieties. So I thought that a positive story might help.
As shown in my signature I had GK in April 2008. My case was tricky because of the size, which is very bordeline for radiation. I won't go into the messy consultation/decision process, which I have mentioned in previous posts. Because of the size, the GK team ended up using a slightly lower radiation dose (11 Gy instead of the usual 12-13 Gy).
I haven't really experienced any major issues post-GK. Some minor "twitches" and other strange sensations were taken care of with ibuprophen. I didn't lose a day at work, and have been very busy taking care of the kids at home. At some point due to the absence of any symptoms I was even wondering if the procedure had worked at all.
The only major event was a sudden hearing loss, accompanied with fullness and tinnitus about a month ago, which resolved with a course of steroids.
My 6 month MRI showed no change in size, with darkening at the centre, consistent with "partial necrosis" according to the radiologist report. My radiation oncologist even mentioned that the distortion overall seemed to be a bit better. Really, this was the best result that I could have expected under the circumstances
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I also wanted to say that this whole experience has changed entirely the way I look at things. I think that most people here can relate to this. Having been through the stress/anxiety/second guessing/waiting for the other shoe to drop stages, I suddenly realized how grateful I should be that 1. we have a condition that can be treated, 2. there are many good options and choices, 3. we can continue on with our lives, even if altered a bit. Now I don't let the little frustrations and anxieties at work etc. get to me, because I know that in the grand scheme of things they are inconsequential.
A new comer on the forum may be surprised by how many people have "life is good" in their signatures, even if they are experiencing various issues. After going through all this AN experience, we all know how important and precious it is that we can continue on with our lives.
For many of us it is just the beginning of the journey post-treatment, but keep focused on the potential for a good outcome and have a positive attitude as much as possible.
Marianna
PS. Last but not least, I would like to thank my good friend Trish, for her support through all this. She was there when I was freaking out pre and post-treatment, and I honestly don't know how I would have gone through all this without our daily e-mail exchanges and her constant encouragement.
