by Stacy
I suffered headaches for at least 10 years. I was 39 years old at the time, and a mother of three young children. My youngest was 2 years old. I went for tests to figure out why I was having headaches. Finally, a CAT scan, an MRI, and then the answer. It was determined at BW hospital in Boston, MA, that I had a tumor on the left side of my brain. The doctor was fairly certain it was a low grade glioma. One week later I had surgery. Yes, it was a glioma -- a grade 2/3 astrocytoma. I agreed to meet with a neuro oncologist at DF. After meeting with Dr. D, we wait to see if I am a good match for Temodar....it turns out I am. So, we begin...I say "we" because I was never alone. My family is/was amazing, and my friends the same. I began my 12 months of Temodar and just took it day by day. I'm a teacher and I worked the entire time. Was it easy?....Heck no! I was tired, sick to my stomach, and down right scared. I was also angry....very angry. I had to believe, believe that this could work, and that I would live. I finished chemo in November 2010. MRI's since then have proven that miracles can happen. The tumor has receded greatly. I feel much, much, better. I am thankful for so many things, but most of all for being here. I feel blessed, blessed, to be here! I am moving forward everyday. I would do it again...and will if need be!
