Tips from our Brain Tumor Superheroes! |
|
|
Hi There! Welcome to Meningioma Companion's newsletter. Get the scoop on what we learned and discussed in November. |
|
|
The brain tumor journey is ongoing. Here are some topics that were discussed in our November sessions. - Create a structure for remembering! We must set ourselves up for success. Loss of memory, (or brain fog as many of us call it), is more common then we like to admit, especially after a craniotomy. Invest time in setting up your environment to be fail proof. Put hooks at the front door to hang your house/car keys, set up a charging station for all of your electronics, label your household items, write out your daily routines, and schedule alerts on your cell phone. These are a few things that can be done to establish your fail proof environment.
- Pay attention to hormone changes. Brain tumors appear to be more common in women and this seems to be related to hormones. It is important to pay attention to your body. Whether it is a woman's monthly cycle, birth control use, pregnancy, or going through the phases of menopause, it seems hormonal changes can trigger growth. Many women with brain tumors have reported having: fibroids, a hysterectomy, tumor regrowth, testing positive for cancer cells, even cysts. Always pay attention to your body as there is not much science behind this but there appears to be a correlation between hormones and tumors. Here is one research article I found that was interesting: Is There an Association Between Meningioma and Hormone Replacement Therapy?
- Ride the waves! This diagnosis brings us many ups and downs. At times your brain tumor will not bother you at all and other times it will consume your daily thoughts. Occasionally something will happen like a limb that falls asleep or a sudden migraine and you will think it's the tumor! There is no real peace of mind once this condition is discovered. You officially have a new norm and that can be challenging to accept. The waves of this diagnosis may get rocky but there is usually calm before and after the storms. Be present with your highs and lows, ride the waves, and talk about it. Expressing yourself can have therapeutic value. Join a support group today and feel the power of expression among your peers!
A special thanks you to all who joined and shared so openly in November. I hope to see you again soon! The January schedule is officially posted! "Together we are Stronger!" Wishing you a fabulous December! Be Well, Angel |
|
|
Becoming a Brain Tumor Companion was a labor of love. When I was diagnosed over eight years ago, I was so confused. When I got the news that I needed a craniotomy, I fell apart. The support I needed was not available. Yes, there were Facebook groups which I appreciated, but my posts faded fast. I wanted to cry, laugh, vent and learn from someone I could rely on. In late 2019, I began one-on-one companion sessions to help pay it forward, and in September 2020, I began hosting Brain Tumor Zoom Support Groups (BTZSG). I now offer the platform which I needed all along. Connect with others and never feel alone on this journey again. It's a gift to share in real time, with those who "Get it!" | | |
|
|
To unsubscribe from Meningioma Companions monthly newsletter reply STOP to this email and if willing please share why you decided to leave. Take Care! - Angel |
|
|
|
|
