Even in the Valley, God is good!

Okay, so I thought this would be the best way to update everyone on my health issues. As some have read on a previous blog, I found out in November that I had a tumor and it was probably on my pituitary gland. I have been going to specialists and such trying to figure out what is going on with everything. I had an MRI 2 weeks ago on Thursday. The doctor called me and told me the results the following Friday after the MRI. He told me that he could see the tumor, which was a little bigger than he had thought it would be, and also that I had some fluid built up in my head. He then told me that he wanted me to see a neurosurgeon to see if and what needed to be done at this point. So, Friday, yes as in yesterday, I went to the neurosurgeon. I was asked tons of medical questions and then he took me in another room for me to view my MRI scans. He showed me the tumor, which is very clear on the scan. He said that it is actually not growing on the pituitary gland which is good, but it is blocking a passage a little. He said that it is not affecting anything at this point and nothing needs to be done with the tumor, just monitor it. Then, he went on to the fluid issue. I have a large amount of fluid that is built up. He was very concerned about this. He then proceeded to tell me that, yes I will need to have surgery to take care of this problem. The buildup of fluid can cause major problems in the future, and also to prevent an emergent situation, he wants to take care of this now. He specifically stated, "I do NOT want you to wait 6 months to have this done." Talk about scary...yeah to say the least! I am going to have to have a shunt (drain) put into my brain to drain the fluid down through my body and into my abdomen. The surgery will take about 40 minutes and then I will be required to stay overnight in the hospital to make sure everything is okay. It will require an incision into my head and then drill a small hole in my skull about the size of a dime. Then, they will run a tube down through my body into my abdomen to drain the fluid. The shunt is going to remain in place and I should not have to have any more surgeries related to this. There will be a small incision in my stomach so the tube can be put into place in my abdomen. After all is said and done, I will have to be out of work for a week. I will not have to have my head shaved, and will probably not even have a scar. They make the incision behind my ear and at the bottom of my hairline.

I haven't told many people about all of this, well because of several reasons. One, I do NOT want a pity party! I am fine, except for headaches, which I have had since I was in middle school. Two, when anyone mentions the word "tumor," people automatically assume cancer. My tumor is NOT cancerous. Three, I was not sure of anything until I saw the neurosurgeon. I still don't have all the details, but I am sure the surgery will be in June. I will try my best to update on here. Please do not take offense if you are just now finding out about all of this. I am a very private person in general and usually don't tell much about my personal life. Please, don't hesitate to ask questions. I will answer to my best knowledge and ability.

Most importantly, I am trusting God with all of this. He has a purpose and plan. I am not certain of anything, but I can rely on Him to see me through! He is in control. Now, I am not saying that I won't be nervous, because I already am! Please keep me in your prayers! I am absolutely blessed by all the people around me who love and support me. I have wonderful friends and family! God brought me to it, and He will bring me through it!