Updated on 11/27/15
Hi, my name is Dawn.
I live in Denver, CO, am 44 years old, and found out on April Fool’s Day 2015 that I have a brain tumor. I still don’t know what kind. After many consultations, the neurosurgeon whom I chose to have follow my case has determined that due to the location of the tumor, on top of my brain stem, it poses a very high-risk to perform a biopsy. The current plan is to follow the tumor with regular MRIs and if/when it grows, a biopsy will be necessary to determine treatment options.
I began a paper journal at the suggestion of a friend, to jot down my thoughts as I process this news, to write lists of things to do, and to keep a record of what I have done. Through that, I decided to write a blog to share this journey with friends, family, and possibly others going through a similar situation.
Thank you for taking time to read along… more will be revealed.
Dawn
Here’s the tumor on my brain stem, which I refer to as a marble-sized galaxy named Bob. Which somehow makes it easier for me to deal with. Bob’s not that big (I guess that’s relative) but is chilling right on top of my brain stem which has prevented the neurosurgeon to take a biopsy. Apparently, this is a risky area to poke a needle into.
braintumorlife 
Great blog Dawn! Sorry that it has to be about this topic. Please keep us posted on how your doing and remember to check out Barrow’s for a 4th opinion (it’s worth it). Stay strong!
Brian (and Dawn) Beck
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Thank you Brian. I will look into Barrow’s for treatment plans after my biopsy, thank you for the recommendation. Hope that you and Dawn are well.
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Thank you so much Brian and Dawn! I can’t remember if I replied already… as of now, awaiting another MRI in 6 weeks to see if there is any growth. I hope that you are both doing well with it all too!!
Dawn
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Hey Dawn… How is Bob. Want me to kick his ass?!. Hang in there. Thinking of you
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Thank you Klaudia, miss you and the gals (and guys) of Restore! Thanks for reaching out… and yeah please give Bob a good cross-fit style whoop-ass!! xo
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What is Barrow’s treatment?
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OH, you mean Bob’s treatment? For now we are not treating it. We are following every 3 months with MRIs to see if/when it grows, then will need to do a biopsy and come up with a treatment plan.
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OH, sorry, I lost track of the thread! I keep forgetting to check comments… oops. Honestly though, I don’t remember. It’s hard for me to remember things from day to day!
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hmm? Barrow’s treatment? I’m not sure what you are referring to?
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Hi Dawn,
I have been following since the begging and I love your blog! I have nominated you for the WordPress family Award for all you have meant to me and other bloggers. If you don’t accept awards, I understand. I just wanted you to know that you have made a difference in my life :)Thank you!!!
Oona
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Hi Oona,
Thank you so much! Wow, I can’t tell you how much it means to me to know that I’ve made an impact 🙂
I really just started this to keep my family and friends in the loop, with just a hope that it may help oth ers who read it.
I do so little with WordPress (I really would like to blog more!) that I didn’t know they had an award. Thank you for nominating me!
I love reading your blog as well! Take wonderful care.
Dawn
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It was my pleasure! Looking forward to your next post!!!
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