Guess what !

[Mathilda]

Guess what!

Today I saw my ENT surgeon here in the Netherlands. He called me in because the skull base team had discussed my last MRI (after7 weeks !) and had come to the conclusion that it would probably be best to start treatment since the AN had grown with 4 mm in the past year. And since I still have my hearing in tact I would be a good candidate for Middle Fossa.
I told him:  GUESS WHAT !   I am having surgery next week !!!   ........ Huh? was the reply ......and where if I may ask?..........
In the House Ear Clinic in LA ........(Sigh) Well, in that case I can telll you that I'm very happy that you've come to that decision. Really, from the bottom of my heart, I'm glad that that is the way you're going !!!

Now apparently my ENT surgeon here had been trained in LA and knows dr. Slattery and dr. Schwartz personally.
Isn't that cool ? At least if I now need his cooperation he'll be more likely to help me out since he agrees with my decision.
Over here I probably would have had to wait at least another 4 to 6 months. So I'm very thankful that exactly a week from now the little bugger will be OUT !

Thanks everyone for your input, help and cheery disposition. We are leaving for the States tomorrow and it will be a while before I'll post again. In the meantime: all the best to you all!

Mathilda

[Omaschwannoma]

Good news Mathilda!  Sounds like you're a lucky girl here with your doctor having trained at House and familiar with these tumors.  I've mentioned before it's always a good idea to have a doctor familiar with VSs in your home town as post op problems will be solved easier. 

[lori67]

Well, it is a small world, isn't it?  It must make you feel a whole lot better to hear your doctor at home speak highly of your choice of surgeon.

Have a safe trip!  I hope you'll get to take in some sights while you're here! Other than the hospital, that is!

Can't wait to hear from you!
Lori

[nancyann]

Hi there Matilda:  I wish you well  on your journey.     If you haven't already, it would be a good idea to give House Ear Clinic your ENT in the Netherlands'  fax #, address, &/or e-mail to send the:  surgery report & all doctors' notes  ( you'll probably continue follow up with your ENT ).

Always good thoughts,   Nancy

ps:  keep a peaceful heart my friend

[Sue]

I think this comes under, "It was meant to be..."!   

Best wishes to you as you head into surgery and I know you will be very happy when this is all over with.

Thinking of you,

Sue in Vancouver USA

[LADavid]

Great news, Mathilda.  I didn't realize that Dr Slatery was going to be your surgeon -- he was mine as well.  He's a good guy.  I don't think I'll be able to make it down to see you this week because I'm in the middle of a move.  But if you can stand some post-surgery visitors, I am sure Lainie maybe Nancy, and I can get over to see you.  Best wishes.
David