"2 x craniotomy for brain tumour."

After being referred to QE I found that I was under the care of theNeurosurgeon. I had to wait until they had time and theatre time was available for them to do my surgery. Clearly an experienced, very knowledgeable, approachable surgeon, they explained that in my case we were talking control and not cure. The actual day of surgery was very straightforward for me although I was anxious naturally. I recovered well and was moved back to normal ward where I was very well looked after, with regular visits from nursing staff who observed me but did not disturb me if it was night time. Other patients in my all female bay had undergone similar surgery so we all slept well until the breakfast trolley appeared. I could eat and drink as normal by the afternoon and was chatting happily to visitors that night. My discharge came on day 5 which surprised me very pleasantly. I was pain free throughout but accepted two paracetamol before bedtime.

Since then I have had MRI scans at the hospital to monitor the remaining tumour. It was not possible to completely remove the tumour so re-growth was likely. thankfully it did not happen for about two and a half years and the changes were noticed on an MRI scan early on so a similar craniotomy took place to take a biopsy for Close examination in the laboratory. This revealed that some cells(baddies) were growing again and in fact the tumour was reclassified as anaplastic Stage 3. I was totally deflated, having been so hopeful that this time it might possibly be a 100 per cent removal although I now know this is virtually impossible. Discharged again after 5 days feeling physically well but wracked with anxiety. Within the hospital was a

MacMillan clinical psychologist who saw me once a week for talking therapy to reduce my anxiety. Brilliant!! Over the twelve months during which I saw them my very physical symptoms of anxiety lessened and I could see the proverbial light which spurred me on to take control. Now the anxiety has gone and I am remarkably well. Three cheers for the QE and especially my consultant, I cannot fault them. My referral to New Cross hospital near Wolverhampton for chemotherapy and radio therapy was also a good efficient experience. their staff were very kind and explained everything before doing it. I had a Perspex mask made to fit over my head and face-- very strange experience but not painful at all. This was bolted to the radio therapy bed to keep me perfectly still, usual practice I believe but my first time, and last I hope. My monitoring MRIs continue for which of course I am grateful.