![[Prev]](/sitebuilder/static/images/arrows/left.png)
![[Next]](/sitebuilder/static/images/arrows/right-link.png)
Dagmer Chew
Cape May New Jersey
My son had a seziure and stroke like symptoms on Thurs and Friday had brain surgery after discovering a mass. They have determined it is Oligodendrogliomas path report is not back yet. We are on pins and needles with little or no direction. We are fully committed to finding the right treatment and doctors. We need help in the what next step. No insurance is going to make this very difficult. His precious wife of 3 years is taking fantastic care of him they are living with my husband and I. Mickey is 27 and in great phyical condition until this. Scared with the unknow help us if you can.
Gail
Cobleskill Ny
I read your story, and was inspired. My 30 year old son developed grand mal seizures in Feb. and was diagnosed with an ogliogendrioma tumor in his frontal lobe. His seizures are controlled on Keppra. We are awaitng a repeat MRI. My son wants this removed sooner than later. ANY advice you can give me would be so greatly appreciated!!!gwright12043@yahoo .com
Mandy
Washington
Hi Audra, and everyone else. My name is Mandy. I was diagnosed with Oligo II back in April of 2008. Being in the right frontal they were able to remove it. I went for a year w/o any changes. Last summer my oncologist noticed a "change" not progression, but erring on the side of caution, he recommended I start chemo. I agreed and am on my 8th month. My doc feels very encouraged by my response to the Temodar and I feel pretty good while I'm taking it. My goal is to postpone radiation for as long as possible... or forever. I believe that healing happens today and I pray mightily for it! I feel very lucky with how things have gone so far. I know everyone on here has had the same fears, negative thoughts and roller-coaster emotions. I've allowed myself to have some really bad days, but what it really comes down to is that none of us has an expiration date stamped on us. No matter what a Dr. says, they have no idea how long any of us will be here and worry will not add one minute to our lives. So, take one day at a time, stay informed and control what you can. I wish you all the best. Congrats on the new baby Audra. I admire your faith! I'm here to support each and every one of you. Feel free to contact me at mandysparks72@gmail.com.
Anonymous
Washington DC
I just wanted to say God Bless you, you are truly an inspiration and a powerful individual.
Carrie/ Oligodendroglioma Stage 2
Georgia
Thank you for this website. Three weeks after my husbands brain biopsy we now know what we are fighting. Until 4 weeks ago, we were just newlyweds starting our new life as a family. We don't meet with an Oncologist for 6 more days. However, I am finding some inspiration regarding the comments from others. Thank you.
Shannon/PAM from NC Dermatomyositis
Houston,Texas
This comment is for Pam.I wanted to contact you about how you treated your dermatomyositis. Please contact me at shadukes@gmail.com
Thankyou
Thankyou
Rich
Cleveland, OH
Audra,
Thanks for putting this site up...it does help. I was diagnosed about a month ago and I am still spinning. I have no symptoms as of yet and we found it by pure chance. Unfortunately docs are not sure of the type yet and it is either Astro or Oglio..obviously hoping for the Oglio type. I just started looking for others like me and I found your site. If anyone would like to connect please email me at richfiger@hotmail.com as I would truly benefit from conversation at this point. I am also wondering where everyone went for treatment, key learning, etc. Definitely could use some help! Thanks again....Rich
Thanks for putting this site up...it does help. I was diagnosed about a month ago and I am still spinning. I have no symptoms as of yet and we found it by pure chance. Unfortunately docs are not sure of the type yet and it is either Astro or Oglio..obviously hoping for the Oglio type. I just started looking for others like me and I found your site. If anyone would like to connect please email me at richfiger@hotmail.com as I would truly benefit from conversation at this point. I am also wondering where everyone went for treatment, key learning, etc. Definitely could use some help! Thanks again....Rich
good to know I'm not alone
Toronto, Canada
Hi Audra,
My name is Tracy, and I have been newly diagnosed (this morning) with an Astrocytoma Grade II, very similar I understand to your tumor. I'm struggling. I'm 38, I have two kids, 6 and 2.5 My doctors were very pessimistic this morning. This has all happened since December 18, 2009 when I had a grand mal seizure and was taken to hospital by ambulance. They had no idea, did a CT and found a "large" mass in my had, which was removed by surgery the next day. I'm sorry to say, but I am so thankful I live in Canada. I have read your story, and I am inspired. All I care about right now is my husband and my kids. I really don't care about myself, I am just so sad for them. The survival stats are overwhelming. God. I'm rambling. Just wanted to connect with someone who has walked a few miles in my new shoes. And to let you know how great you are.
My name is Tracy, and I have been newly diagnosed (this morning) with an Astrocytoma Grade II, very similar I understand to your tumor. I'm struggling. I'm 38, I have two kids, 6 and 2.5 My doctors were very pessimistic this morning. This has all happened since December 18, 2009 when I had a grand mal seizure and was taken to hospital by ambulance. They had no idea, did a CT and found a "large" mass in my had, which was removed by surgery the next day. I'm sorry to say, but I am so thankful I live in Canada. I have read your story, and I am inspired. All I care about right now is my husband and my kids. I really don't care about myself, I am just so sad for them. The survival stats are overwhelming. God. I'm rambling. Just wanted to connect with someone who has walked a few miles in my new shoes. And to let you know how great you are.
Jenny // You're a beacon of hope!
Chicago, IL
Hi Audra,
I came across your blog when looking up brain tumor sites, and I must say, you're an inspiration to many, myself included! It's now been a year since we found my Grade II Oligo. My surgery was January 2nd, and I'm lucky that we haven't had to do chemo or radiation yet. In fact, I hadn't had seizures or headaches prior to surgery.. we found it because I was constantly hearing the increased blood circulation in my ear (which caused the doc to order a CAT scan).
It gives me hope to see you doing well, with 2 beautiful children! My biggest fear is that chemo (which my oncologist could start as soon as he notices a change on my MRIs) will affect my ability to have children. I'm 26, not married yet, but still I wonder: Were there any concerns with Irie, having her after treatment?
I came across your blog when looking up brain tumor sites, and I must say, you're an inspiration to many, myself included! It's now been a year since we found my Grade II Oligo. My surgery was January 2nd, and I'm lucky that we haven't had to do chemo or radiation yet. In fact, I hadn't had seizures or headaches prior to surgery.. we found it because I was constantly hearing the increased blood circulation in my ear (which caused the doc to order a CAT scan).
It gives me hope to see you doing well, with 2 beautiful children! My biggest fear is that chemo (which my oncologist could start as soon as he notices a change on my MRIs) will affect my ability to have children. I'm 26, not married yet, but still I wonder: Were there any concerns with Irie, having her after treatment?
Pam Rogers
Jackson,Tn
I came across your story in studying stage 2 oligodendrogiomas. My husband had one removed in June 2009. He had no idea that he had a tumor. It was a mysterious act of God that we found out. He went back for another CAT &MRI in Sept. 2009 and it revealed a small spot in his brain. At that time they did not know if it was the cancer or not. He goes back Dec. 10, 2009 for a repeat. The doctor said by then he hopefully can tell us if it has returned.They have not done radiation or chemo on him yet. He was so courageous. He went back to work the day after he was released from the hospital, with 38 staples in his head. The past three weeks I have seen a change in him. He is very tired and says he does not feel good. His vision is decreasing fast. I worry everyday. It is Thanksgiving 2009 and I can't help but to wonder if this is his last. Your story has inspired me. Keep fighting girl. You have 2 beautiful children. God bless you and your family. Stay positive, that is the key..
Audra writes:
Hi Pam. I hope everything has turn out OK for now. Remember to treasure every moment that you have with him. Sometimes it is hard when we get stuck in the day to day to see the big picture, but life is precious and fleeting so love the ones you have when you have them with all that you have. Good luck.
Terry / Oligo II
Houston Tx
Hey gang.. seems I stumbled into the perfect place for some advice from ppl that knows where I am coming from. Let me start by explaining myself some I am now 37 yrs old and I was diagnosised in aug of 2005 with a oligo II after a seizure. mine is located in the Lt frontal cortex which means its inoperable I went thru a year of temador which had stop its growth and was finally getting my life back togther. (this has already cost me my marriage and unable to work much anymore) well over the past year and a half have put things back together have been able to return to work on a part time basis and have met a wonderfull man and we are engaged to be married in may of next year and maybe even start a little family..... but went to the doc yest for my MRI and appt and there are changes in the size of the tumor and they are questioning if its also changed to a grade III now. They are talking about chemo, radiation, another brain biopsy so now I am really scared and not sure what to do... I dont want to become a burden to my fiance (that already scared one off) and not sure if I am really stong enough to go thru this again. I am not trying to get sympathy I just need some advice.. What would you do if you where in my shoes??? I would so appreciate anybodies opinion. My email is terry_1972@sbcglobal.net
Thanks and god bless you!!
Thanks and god bless you!!
Audra writes:
Terry,
You have been through much more hardship than I have and it sounds as if you as "bounced back" once. You question if you have the strength for a second go around. Consider this: you have experience now. Things aren't as scarey as they were the first time. You know what to do. Perhaps you've come to some sort of resolve. It's obvious you have the strength. You've probably even surprised yourself along the way with how resilient your really are or can be. Every day counts for everyone but with us it is ever so more obvious.
You have been through much more hardship than I have and it sounds as if you as "bounced back" once. You question if you have the strength for a second go around. Consider this: you have experience now. Things aren't as scarey as they were the first time. You know what to do. Perhaps you've come to some sort of resolve. It's obvious you have the strength. You've probably even surprised yourself along the way with how resilient your really are or can be. Every day counts for everyone but with us it is ever so more obvious.
Shael/My Oligo II
Orlando, Florida
Hi Audra,
I am surprised it has taken me this long to find your story. You are an amazing person!!
We have a few things in common. I had a grandmal seizure in my sleep on March 11, 2005 (my daughter was 6 months old and my son was almost 5 at the time) which led to the discovery of my Oligo left temp. Surgery was the following morning. Did 14 months of temodar. I am on a 6 month MRI schedule right now. Getting excited that I am close to another year Oli Free!!
I am surprised it has taken me this long to find your story. You are an amazing person!!
We have a few things in common. I had a grandmal seizure in my sleep on March 11, 2005 (my daughter was 6 months old and my son was almost 5 at the time) which led to the discovery of my Oligo left temp. Surgery was the following morning. Did 14 months of temodar. I am on a 6 month MRI schedule right now. Getting excited that I am close to another year Oli Free!!
Glenda McHenry/ oligodendroglioma
right frontal lobe/Tulsa OK
In 2004 I had a grand mal seizure but I had been having symptoms for quite a few years and I never recieved a Mri until the seizure. Mainly none of the doctors I went to would order one. They would put me on pain medication and muscle relaxants. I was going thru a divorce and I thought it was stress. Than was on May 29, 2004... My craniotomy was on June 2, 2009. My tumor was the size of an egg. It was resected but I still had a little bit left. August 2004 I started chemotherapy using PCV chemotherapy treatment for brain cancer.
My tumore did shrink and so far it has not gotten any bigger. My last MRI was in August. My next oncology appointment is I believe September 10...I'm expecting a good results. Notice Location: did it mean tumor or the city where I live? LOL
My tumore did shrink and so far it has not gotten any bigger. My last MRI was in August. My next oncology appointment is I believe September 10...I'm expecting a good results. Notice Location: did it mean tumor or the city where I live? LOL
Fabian oligodendroglioma surviver
TN
I had the majority of a level 2 removed in june 06' and lost part of my left temple effecting speech ect.. And I have recovered from 90% of the difficulties it caused. I just found this awsome site!! 
I am a RN and have studied the glioma intensively. I have yet to talk to anyone with the same diagnosis and would love to anytime!!
I have studied up on treatment that we can do for ourselvs in the physical world. As well as what the Lord has to say about healing. Anyone can email me at anytime.
Blessings,
Fabianray@comcast.net
I am a RN and have studied the glioma intensively. I have yet to talk to anyone with the same diagnosis and would love to anytime!!
I have studied up on treatment that we can do for ourselvs in the physical world. As well as what the Lord has to say about healing. Anyone can email me at anytime.
Blessings,
Fabianray@comcast.net
Jenn
AZ
Hi Audra-
What a compelling journey!! You are SO brave & in such great spirits. My husband has had the same tumor located on the left frontal/temporal lobe. He was diagnosed in March of 2000. Went through the same exact treatments as you. His biggest obstacle & deficit is speech. He cannot talk well. You seem to be able to communicate well & your face is flawless. Jason cannot form a complete smile & his gait is starting to get off kilter.
His final radiation treatment was on 11/18/08. Really concerned if we're headed down that road again. I don't want to go there again. He's supposed to get another MRI VERY soon. Doc says he's on a 6 month plan instead of the MRI every 2 months. I'm very anxious to see if something is going on.
Anyhow, I found this site & just had to share. I admire your courage Audra.
Blessings,
Jenn
What a compelling journey!! You are SO brave & in such great spirits. My husband has had the same tumor located on the left frontal/temporal lobe. He was diagnosed in March of 2000. Went through the same exact treatments as you. His biggest obstacle & deficit is speech. He cannot talk well. You seem to be able to communicate well & your face is flawless. Jason cannot form a complete smile & his gait is starting to get off kilter.
His final radiation treatment was on 11/18/08. Really concerned if we're headed down that road again. I don't want to go there again. He's supposed to get another MRI VERY soon. Doc says he's on a 6 month plan instead of the MRI every 2 months. I'm very anxious to see if something is going on.
Anyhow, I found this site & just had to share. I admire your courage Audra.
Blessings,
Jenn
Tammy
Seattle, WA
Audra, I was diagnosed with a stage 2 oligodendroglioma and had surgery in March 2009. I was told that my tumor was benign and malignant was stage 3. I was hoping to find out how ours differ. As of now I do not need radiation or chemo. My 1st follow up MRI is in 2 days. Wish me luck. I am 35 and have 2 yo twins, and a seven yo daughter. My email is mandtbaker@aol.com. I would love an email buddy. I do not know anyone with the same condition and it would be so nice to have some support and someone to email experience and questions too.
Kairol
Hello Audra! I found you on the i2y blogroll (I'm another "cancer blogger" at everythingchangesbook.com). I love love love your solar power and windpower images. Of course the kids with chickens and cupcakes and pretty great too. Congrats to you on the new addition. You might enjoy my new book, Everything Changes: The Insider's Guide to Cancer in Your 20s and 30s. Nice to connect with you!
Kairol Rosenthal
Kairol Rosenthal
Pam
Ashe Co., NC
Hi Audra! Great website. My interest is your health condition-Ive learned so much about it since I read about you. How is your health status now?
I can just feel your positive attitude. I appreciate your sharing and honesty about it.
Also I love your recipes. My son will love this soup. He is a fitness and personal trainer.
I have dermatomyositis- an auto immune cond. Nutrition is directly related to illness/disease! My condition totally cleared with nutrition, cleansing, detoxing. The doctors don't get it when I share how I heal with them.
Your pics of children and you just glow! What a blessing and joy-I love it.
BYW-I am your cousin in N.C. Russell's girl. Uncle JRay was my favorite uncle ever!
I can just feel your positive attitude. I appreciate your sharing and honesty about it.
Also I love your recipes. My son will love this soup. He is a fitness and personal trainer.
I have dermatomyositis- an auto immune cond. Nutrition is directly related to illness/disease! My condition totally cleared with nutrition, cleansing, detoxing. The doctors don't get it when I share how I heal with them.
Your pics of children and you just glow! What a blessing and joy-I love it.
BYW-I am your cousin in N.C. Russell's girl. Uncle JRay was my favorite uncle ever!
Leslie Arter
York, PA
Hi Audra,
I'm not sure you'll remember me. I knew you in high school - your senior year. I had a brief stint on the drama club.
Your site is great and your story is absolutely inspirational. I wish you all the best for the future! Thanks for sharing!
~ Leslie
I'm not sure you'll remember me. I knew you in high school - your senior year. I had a brief stint on the drama club.
Your site is great and your story is absolutely inspirational. I wish you all the best for the future! Thanks for sharing!
~ Leslie
Stephanie
Willards
Audra- Your website is great & I loved looking at your pics! I'm inspired by you & what you have gone through. You are quite amazing. I hope we can become friends ~ since Willards isn't too far from Pittsville and we both recycle
