Hello - and welcome, Lyn ~
As always, I'm sorry to learn of another person receiving the dreaded AN diagnosis but, since you have, I'm pleased you decided to visit the ANA website, read the messages on the forums, register and post here. As you noted, there is a host of very caring, knowledgeable folks populating these forums and as you can see, many are eager to reach out and help, via the internet (or phone, in some cases). We're not doctors and cannot diagnose or dispense medical opinions but we have a lot of practical experience dealing with an acoustic neuroma; from handling the initial diagnosis, researching options (surgery and/or irradiation) and then, post-op healing and recovery as well as regaining normalcy. As normal as your emotions are for a newly-diagnosed AN patient, there isn't any need for you to feel lonely and scared anymore.
Clearly, you have a lot on your 'plate'. The trick is to tackle it in small 'bites'. For now, you'll do well to follow the advice given in previous posts and research your possibilities. I can guarantee that when you finally arrive at a decision on treatment (surgery or radiation) as well as a doctor and facility, we'll collectively support that decision because it's usually hard-won, emotionally draining and something that all AN patients have to make, so we can empathize with you in a way few others can. Our Floridian members can help with suggestions on doctors and hospitals but you're probably on the right track, already.
As a young mother and law school student, you may have to be willing to make some temporary changes and compromises as you go through whatever treatment you chose. Law school may have to be put on hold for a semester and you might require some help with your kids. Unfortunately, surgery and/or radiation outcomes cannot be guaranteed. There are simply too many variables . As we often say (in unison) 'every AN patient is unique' - so what happens to one (good or not-so-good) doesn't mean another AN patient will have the same experience. I believe that attitude (and good health 'going in') can make a difference in the outcome and recovery for any AN patient. With your youth, acumen, obvious ambition and resolve, you're well-equipped for the challleges ahead. I can guarantee that they're all surmountable, as the stories from other AN patients you've read can attest.
An acoustic neuroma may well be benign (non-malignant) but it does pose it's own set of obstacles that have to be conquered. You'll do that, I'm certain. We're now your 'AN family' and we want to help. Please use these forums as a resource to inquire and comment as needed. We'll be here for you, Lyn.
Jim
