Sharon Brubaker

Meningioma, It's all in your head!! Sharon Brubaker

You or someone you know has just been diagnosed with a type of brain tumor called a meningioma. "Don't let it scare you"! In the United States alone, meningioma tumors account for more than 37% of primary brain tumors. An estimated 34,210 people will be diagnosed with meningioma this year. Depending on the size and location, you will have several options. It will be monitored because it's small and currently stable or it needs to be removed. Yes, it is a wake-up call, to hear those words you have a brain tumor. Believe me: it is ok. You will be surprised how much better you will feel once you learn more about this particular tumor. There are more than 120 types of brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumors. However, meningioma is the most common type of primary brain tumor. Over half way through the sixth year now, the last MRI has shown my tumor to remain the same size and stable. The first year, I had an MRI every six months, then once a year followed by every two years. With this much time having passed I wanted to share life before, during and after surgery, including any restrictions and time allotted for healing. There are also questions and answers along with questions you might want to ask your doctor. I've also included website links to help you navigate to the exact places where you will find the help you need!