First post

[sharondaniels]

Hi
So this is my first post.  2 months ago, I went to an ENT because of tinnitus....and I jokingly would say to my kids...talk in my good ear... My right side just seemed full!!  I was immediately set up for an MRI.  I had high pitch hearing loss and ringing in just one ear....of which I had self diagnosed as just getting old!!  At 47, very healthy... a bit of ringing had been tolerated for about 2 years or so..so what I thought.  The day of the MRI, I got a call from the ENT who told me I had an AN.  Less than 1.6cm, but nonetheless, I needed to seek a specialist.  I had been researching AN for about a week before the MRI, as I knew that the odds of having it were slim yet still a possibility!  I was referred to UVA.  Dr. Kesser informed me of surgical procedures, Dr. Jason Sheehan informed me of GK.  I chose the later... on Dec. 1st, I went in for the procedure.  I am claustrophobic... so had a bit more medication than some might have.  The halo coming off felt like they were tightening it rather than loosening!!  But, that was the worst of it.  So, now it is a wait and see.  In 6 mos I will return for an MRI.  I hope for necrosis!!  The actual measurement came back a bit smaller than originally measured.. 15mmx11mm.....
Initially this was a difficult pill to swallow.  I have never had anything done except for wisdom teeth removed... the thought of a brain tumor was just crazy.... I always would jokingly say that I was the  healthiest person I know.  Vitamins were all I take.  So, I felt sorry for myself...the usual why me!  Until someone said.....why not you.  That put things in perspective. 
5 days out and I just have a bit of louder tinnitus, I feel like my head might have been bumped a bit.... nothing more.  My balance has never been affected. 
So, for now, I am thinking positive that it is working!
~~~Sharon

[Jim Scott]

Hi, Sharon - and welcome ~

Thanks for posting!  I'm pleased to learn that your Gamma Knife procedure went well and that you're doing O.K, post-radiation.

Like you, I believe that a positive attitude is beneficial to us as we deal with an acoustic neuroma and subsequent treatment, be it surgery or radiation.  I trust that the GK will do it's job and destroy the tumor cells and that necrosis will be evident soon.  However, be aware that tumor swelling is common within the first six months post-radiation so your next MRI may not show what you want to see.  As I'm sure your doctor will advise you: give it time.  I hope you'll remain connected here and update us as warranted.  Thanks.

Jim

[stephSF]

Hi Sharon, the funniest thing happened when I was reading your post.  Same age, same timeframe, same turmor size, same thing I have been telling my kids..........I had to look further to see if I had done the post and forgotten!  Anyhow, I am so thrilled for your progress thus far.  I have opted for sugery and will be going in January.  I felt the same way about the diagnosis.  I also like what you shared after saying "why me?"  ahhhhhhhhhhhh very interesting.  Thanks for sharing and I hope things continue to go in a great direction for you!
Stephanie

1.6cm AN diagnosed 11-18-2011
Surgery set Translab with Dr. Friedman at HEI Jan 25, 2012

[Tod]

Hi Sharon, welcome aboard. I am glad things have gone well far so. When people ask me if I ask "Why me?" I typically respond that it is probably better me than someone without the insurance, employer support, and family support that I have. I can't deny it, I am incredibly lucky.

-Tod

[sharondaniels]

Jim, Stephanie and Tod
Thanks for the well wishes!  This forum has been very helpful in putting things in perspective. 
Stephanie...good luck with your scheduled surgery!!
We take each day as it comes!!  some good days and some not so good, but the day comes regardless...that is what we are thankful for. ..another day.

[leapyrtwins]

Hi, Sharon.  Welcome to the Forum 

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for necrosis (tumor death).

Keep us posted,

Jan

[HisHands]

Sharon, thank you for sharing your experience.  My GK is next week and I'm very nervous, but working hard on keeping positive attitude.  I assume by your post that you did not have immediate swelling of the face or any paralysis.  Also, are you experience fatigue that's out of the norm?  Emma

[sharondaniels]

No real numbness at all!  I do keep a headache though.  Have found that extra strength excedrin works pretty good.  I also think my eyesight might be a bit fuzzier....but then that could just be old age. 
For the first few days I did seem to be a bit more tired earlier in the day but back to normal now. 
Good luck with yours!! You will do fine.  I am actually a really big sissy and except for still being able to feel where they attached the frame to the back of my head.... smooth sailing!!
 Keep us posted.

[schmidtkat]

Sharon,
It's so nice to read posts on this site that make us smile. Yours certainly has for me. While none of us would have ever wanted to have an AN nor wish it on anyone else, I loved Tod's post regarding the "why me?". I'd have to say I can relate to his response. The support of my family and friends, an understanding employer, great insurance, being of relatively good health going into this diagnosis and having a faith to carry me through...why not me? I'd rather be the one dealing with it than having it afflict someone else in my family or one of my friends. I truly believe God is providing me with the supports, strength and sense of humor to deal with this.
To Emma...all the best as you face your proceedure.
Kathy