by Matt
I was diagnosed in May 2006 with an oligoastrocytoma tumor in my left temporal lobe. I have had three surgeries, the first one was to diagnose the tumor that was then removed three weeks later. I lost my ability to speak and read with that surgery. I also lost my peripheral vision on my right side. I had two and a half months of radiation and was put on Temodar chemotherapy.
Fifteen months later I had cysts removed from the same area, and it gave me paralysis on my right side. I had to learn how to walk again as well. Since my 2006 and 2007 surgeries, I have really had to come a long way re-learning so many things. I can now read at about a 6th grade reading level. My speech is coming along and I am back to the entertaining and singing I did for many years before my brain tumor diagnosis.
I am so happy to be alive and I am grateful for my great doctors who have worked so hard on my behalf. I have three young boys who keep me going and are the reason I work so hard to improve. I am so thankful for the Lord and his tender mercies on my behalf. I hope I use my time here in helping others. I am almost five years past my diagnosis and I am feeling great, I am off all chemotherapy and my tumor has shrunk considerably. My doctors feel that I am stable and I continue to go in for MRI's every three months. Life is worth it!
