Ali’s story
I’d been having headaches for a couple of weeks and then one day I collapsed. I was rushed off for tests and they found a grade 2 oligodendroglioma. Within a week, I was having brain surgery. I got over that operation fairly well and didn’t need any more treatment at the time.
Then I found out that the tumour had returned. It had been 9 years since the first tumour. I was in denial and wasn’t particularly worried about the second operation, but I got more worried as the date came closer.
I had no real problems and the surgeon said they got it all, but I’d need radiation therapy and chemotherapy, just to mop up any stray cells. That floored me – I hadn’t needed them the first time.
I had 6 weeks of radiation therapy, then 6 months of oral chemotherapy, and that knocked everything for six. I developed an inflamed stomach and had to go on a very bland diet. I lost weight and strength, and was very vague. Time has helped, but it’s been gradual.
Then I found out that the tumour had returned. It had been 9 years since the first tumour. I was in denial and wasn’t particularly worried about the second operation, but I got more worried as the date came closer.
Ali
Meditation and Relaxation Podcast
Listen to more of our meditation and relaxation podcast for people affected by cancer
