Brain Tumor Recovery Case Story

This is a truly inspiring story about a remarkable woman who came to us with progressive right-sided weakness, impaired coordination, confusion, and slurred speech. An MRI revealed a mass in the left parietal lobe, the area responsible for processing information. There was swelling around the mass, which extended into the region controlling movement and sensation of the right side of the body.  She had a history of breast cancer, presumed cured at the time, and several years of tobacco use, putting her at risk for lung cancer. Though breast and lung cancer can spread to the brain, additional scans showed no other cancer present in her body.

After discussing goals, expectations, and risks of surgery, the patient opted for surgery to remove the mass, which would allow for diagnosis and treatment. Under general anesthesia, I used neuronavigation technology, which works like a GPS system for the brain, guiding me with precision to the tumor’s exact location. With this stereotactic-guided imaging, I could create a detailed 3D map of her brain, ensuring the safest approach with minimal incision. After a small incision in the scalp was made, a small section of bone was carefully removed. This is called a craniotomy and allows access to the brain.  In this patient’s case, the tumor was easily located and carefully dissected free from the surrounding brain tissue. The area was then cleaned, and the bone flap was repositioned and secured in place with plates and screws.  The scalp was sutured closed.  Surgery went very smoothly, and she recovered well.  Subsequent MRIs showed nice resection of the tumor without progression.

Unfortunately, the diagnosis came back as Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), an aggressive and malignant brain tumor with a poor prognosis. Even with treatment, including surgical resection of the mass, chemotherapy, and radiation, survival may be only 6 months to 2 years. But here’s where the story takes a beautiful turn. Against the odds, this incredible woman defied the statistics and has lived for years beyond her life expectancy. At her six-month post-op mark, she sent me an angel figurine to express her gratitude for how well she was doing. Since then, I’ve received one angel each year, with the fifth arriving just recently.

Despite the challenges and heartbreak that often come with brain surgery, the reward of seeing a patient survive and thrive is indescribable. As a surgeon, there’s no greater privilege than giving someone a second chance at life, especially when it feels like the odds are stacked against them. These moments of success, even in the face of adversity, are a constant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of this work. Every time I look at the five angels on my desk, I’m reminded of the power of hope, healing, and the meaningful role we play in our patients’ lives.