But in all the looking forward, I occasionally take a second to look back. Because, I have HAD brain surgery. And not just simple Simon "we're going to put a hole in your skull and look at your meninges" surgery. I had an ETV (which has already been discussed, but look at the Wiki page if you haven't already.
To GET to my "3rd ventricular space," they went DEEP in my brain. It's seriously about the smack dab ass middle of my noggin. And they went in there. And drilled a HOLE. A HOLE, PEOPLE! And then they left a drain! I mean, my God. That's just WEIRD.
Yeah, it was using endoscopes and tools and whatnot, but still...someone drilled a hole in my skull, found the middle of my brain, and dug a trench. With no side effects. That's just purple monkey dishwater.
One thing I was surprised about was the lack of repair to my skull. The hole, I'm told, is just slightly smaller than a US dime. So, not huge, but not tiny. Not microscopic. But they didn't use a hole saw. And they don't do a bone graft from the acres of extra hip bone I've got. Nope, just leave a hole in my head. The theory, I'm told, is that it fills in with super-extra-dense scar tissue that's almost as tough as bone.
I'm a little disconcerted by that "almost."
I used to play rugby. I'll be honest, it's not fair to call myself a "rugby player" these days, as I was last on a pitch in 2008. There may have been a concussion or two, and there was definitely one broken collar bone. But I always liked at least being able to pretend that I could return to the sport. I loved playing, and had a great time. Sure, I wasn't great, but rugby in the US isn't about being great. It's about having fun. And I think I may now be relegated to the sidelines. And that bugs me. Honestly, I doubt I ever would have played again. Just to be fair. But if I didn't it, it would have been my choice. It's nothing earth-shattering, but I'm sure you all understand - having the choice taken away from me is what sucks. That I no longer get a say.
Sylvia sucks.
Me, getting absolutely flattened.
You played RUGBY?!! So THAT explains it! :-) When my son developed acquired hydrocephalus at two months (after a car accident), he had to have a shunt (a one-way valve) installed with tubing to route the excess CSF to his abdomine. He's now 42 and running around with a replacement shunt installed when he was 12. You've got the advantage of advances in medicine. You'll do fine.
ReplyDeleteBen, I'm enjoying your blog, your not-meant-to be puns, and just wait...there are many more jokes coming your way for YEARS to come!!!!! It's not brain surgery, it doesn't take a brain surgeon...., oh you can't remember that? They must have taken that out during your brain surgery....shall I go on? Anyhow I can answer one question, no you will not be able to put Sylvia on the mantel, I wanted to do the same to "boomer (the tumor)" and what I realized is that it is likely sitting on the proverbial mantel at Duke being donated to science. I'll keep following you on this blog, and am thrilled at your GOOD NEWS!! (I sent you a text too). PS It is Kat Budrow Belk. I really don't know how this blog comment stuff works, Sara sent the link to me.
ReplyDeleteYou still trying to claim your a rugby player?!?!
ReplyDelete:-)
Keep after it buddy...you learned how to tackle on the pitch....this will be no problem!
Rick
Having a choice, any choice, taken away from us is just crappy. But look on the bright side: someone is going to one day coach Teddy and Sir 2 through the game basics and give advice and encouragement. Other bright side: maybe my gal Laura will have to be the one to get in there and demonstrate moves. You know you're gonna enjoy the hell out of that :)
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