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From Tumor to Triathlon: INSPIRATION KYLE!

By Jenny · July 9th, 2013

63798_1492879635359_3243279_nShortly after my brain surgery, I was connected to Kyle, a 22 year old who learned he had a tumor that needed to be swiftly removed with some nerve damage to his hearing, and potentially to his face. We stayed in touch throughout his journey, and now he feels like a brother to me. Kyle is an Amazing inspiration to me and everyone in his life. Below you will see why:

 

Last year you were diagnosed with having a golf-ball sized tumor in your ear, for which you needed prompt surgery. Can you tell us more about the whole experience?

I had been going to several hearing specialists for 6-months to diagnose unexplained hearing loss in my right ear. It was after an MRI that they found the 3.9 cm Acoustic Nueroma Brain Tumor that they estimated had been growing for about 10 years. The doctors informed me that I would have to go into prompt surgery and would lose my hearing on that side. After a roller coaster of emotions and meeting with different neurosurgeons across the country, I had a 12-hour surgery to remove the tumor. I am now feeling healthier than ever and reflect back on the experience as something that truly helped to shape me into the man I am today.

 

surgeryWhat was your mind-set like upon diagnosis and going into the surgery? Did it change? 

I was stunned when I first found out about the tumor. I felt healthy, I felt normal… How could I have a brain tumor? It took me a week just to accept the diagnosis. Thanks to the support from family and friends I was able to have a very optimistic outlook on the entire experience. While at times it was extremely tough and difficult, I knew that this was a major life hurdle I had to get through and overcome. I had a lot of doubts going into brain surgery and am very fortunate to have been connected with you (that’s me!) by a family friend. Not many people can give you advice from first-hand experience about brain surgery; so your help and support before surgery was invaluable.

 

What were the results of the surgery and how has your recovery been?

My surgery lasted 12-hours and was extremely successful. I did lose my hearing on my right side which has taken some time adjusting to but it has also provided some blessings in disguise (don’t tell my boss!)

 

high5Just a few months after your surgery, you started competing in triathlons! This is crazy! To what do you credit your mental and physical prowess?

I had always dreamed of competing in Ironman triathlons but due to my youth and feeling of invincibility I kept delaying that dream. When I was laying in the hospital I got a taste of how quickly life can be taken from you and the importance of living your dreams while you still can. I took it upon myself to make the most of my recovery and run a half-Ironman just 5-months after my brain surgery. The Ironman Foundation heard about my story and is now sponsoring me as a Brand Ambassador. I am looking forward to competing in the Ironman Arizona race this November exactly 365 days since leaving the hospital from my surgery!

wetsuit

You’re only 22, with your whole life still ahead of you- what has been your biggest take away from this whole experience? 

My biggest takeaway from the entire experience would have to be the importance of celebrating life. Whether it’s accomplishing that goal you had always dreamed of or spending time with those you love – life can change before your eyes at any moment so it’s important to make the most of everyday we are given. And sometimes making the most of everyday means just eating pizza in your pajamas while watching Game of Thrones!

Do you have any last words to share with others going through a medical journey like yours?

I don’t wish a major health scare upon anyone, but looking back on my recent journey I feel so blessed to have had the experiences I had of going through brain surgery. It has helped give my a unique perspective on life, an appreciation for the small things that I often overlooked, and opportunities that I never imagined possible. Thank you again for all of your support throughout my journey; you have and will continue to be my role model and inspiration!

 

Wow, thank you for your kind words, Kyle. It is you who is the huge inspiration and I’m so thankful for your generous spirit in sharing your journey with everyone. We will be rooting for you all the way!!!

Victory

 

Episode 12

By Jenny · June 18th, 2013

After being diagnosed with a brain tumor, and selecting the world’s best doctor (Dr. Mitchel Berger!), I have to pick a date for my open brain surgery. Below you’ll see the very scientific manner in which I went about selecting my date.. (eh hem). Hey, if it makes you feel better (it does), then why not?

 

 

Click here to see a day with me and my dog in Ep 11.

Click here to see my hair get cut and buzzed in Episode 10.

Episode 11

By Jenny · June 11th, 2013

Charlie and I have a less than super day, but he’s so gosh-darn human and cute, I could have a bad one with him any day of the year.

 

 

Click here to watch my hair get cut in Episode 10.

Click here to see the first episode.

XO

Episode 10

By Jenny · June 4th, 2013

Hi lovies, I’m back! Sorry it’s taken me a moment. This video is way out of order since it is the day before my big brain surgery. I figured it was better to jump ahead than not give you any content at all. Pre-op was a long and grueling day that started early in the morning and went until dinner time. I had to do all sorts of tests including a painful head zapping machine, and 2 hours of IQ testing in a basement after not getting any sleep (because, you know, I was having brain surgery).  But good news- I learned that I qualify for Mensa! (I guess my parents knew all along and never told me…).  Anyway, it makes me love my brain tumor. It had probably been with me for many, many years and my incredible brain rewired around the growing mass to still completely kick ass. Tumor Love aside, I was not expecting this experience in the video:

 


Turns out, the reason those spots were all shaved is because they had to put screws through my skull to hold my head in place for surgery. Nice. Glad I didn’t find that part out until 4 months post-op. It’s been a treat watching sprouts of hair grow out of my head in four different spots!

 

Episode 9

By Jenny · April 30th, 2013

Introducing, the Jenny & Jason Show! This is my favorite episode so far for a couple of reasons: (A) Obviously Jason, but also (B) it perfectly captures my attitude towards my upcoming brain surgery. I naturally stayed positive and deliberately avoided the negative. While it may be satisfying to revel in darkness with moody music and philosophical thoughts when all is well, Brain Tumor time is happy-sunshine-positive time.  The best take-away I can share from this whole experience is: No Negativity. 

 

To see past episodes, click here (and scroll).

Episode 8

By Jenny · April 23rd, 2013

If you have to deal with a surgery and insurance, my brother brings up some interesting questions to consider in this conversation. That said, it’s not my favorite episode for a handful of reasons (vulnerable, no make-up, and no quick edits). It is a part of my journey, though, so the video exits.  I’m truly okay if no one sees this!

 

But stay tuned for next week! It’s a super entertaining episode to make up for this one. ;)

See Episode 7 here.

Episode 7

By Jenny · April 9th, 2013

In this video I’ve just met with Dr. Mitchel Berger at the UCSF Medical Center. I loved him!!! Even if he did inform me that I need open brain surgery… and I have to be awake for it!. Err. what?! Here I am processing the information..

 

 

See Episode 6 here.

See all Episodes here.

 

Episode 6

By Jenny · April 2nd, 2013

It’s a glorious day in San Francisco! On my way to meet the man who’ll see deep into my…head.

 


 
ps: The doctor also informs me that I will definitively need brain surgery.. and be awake for it! But I didn’t film that .. To be continued!

Episode 5

By Jenny · March 26th, 2013

On my way to UCSF Medical Center to meet another neurosurgeon. I have a moment at the airport…

 

Episode 4

By Jenny · March 19th, 2013

I’ve only had one real headache in my life and it occurred a week after banging my head. Not knowing what one does with a pounding headache, I tried the obvious thing.. spinning class, Duh.

 


I know I seem absurdly happy here, but I must say, this headache was the first thing that really scared me about the tumor. As someone who never gets them, I wondered if headaches were a part of my new reality. I guess I’ve always been more of a tummy ache girl…

ps: I did feel rather triumphant that my spinning plan seemed to work, albeit temporarily. More on that next week..!

 

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