Before being diagnosed with a brain tumor, I was very active–golfing, attending sporting events and spending time with my family and friends. Self-exams were not part of my routine, and I often brushed off health changes, telling myself they would just go away.
When I first started getting headaches, I took medicine to help and pushed concerns aside. But, when the lightheadedness and numbness in the back of my head started, I knew it was time to finally see a doctor.
Over the next year, I saw several doctors for my symptoms, but my blood work continued to come back normal. I started experiencing a weird sulfur smell after the bouts of lightheadedness and was told that the symptoms were likely due to stress and anxiety. However, the headaches continued, and I kept going back to the doctor. I knew something wasn’t right and finally insisted that I have a CT scan.
What they found on that scan was a glioblastoma, an aggressive, fast-growing brain cancer. Because I knew my body and didn’t give up on getting answers, I am now a survivor, beating the odds. The doctors were able to remove most of the cancer through surgery and I received radiation and chemotherapy. I now get regular scans and use Optune, a wearable device that limits the cancer growth with wave-like electric fields.
Three years later, I am feeling great and am enjoying the time that I have with my family. I am happy to be involved with the National Brain Tumor Society, doing the Boston Brain Tumor Walk to raise awareness and funds. I encourage others to be your best advocate, to listen to your body when it is telling you something. Don’t be afraid to push for answers. It can save your life.
Symptoms
- headaches
- lightheadedness
- experiencing a weird sulfur smell
- numbness in back of head
