The Brain Tumor Foundation

December 11, 2001

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Brain Tumor Survival Guide

You have a brain tumor...

"You have a brain tumor". Five words. Each one of these words is harmless by itself. But string them together and you have the most frightening sentence anyone will ever hear in their lifetime.

Tumors anywhere are bad enough. But there is something mysterious, onerous and terrifying about having a tumor in the brain. The brain, after all, is what makes us what we are, lets us enjoy life, makes it possible for us to earn a living and, in general, is the organ through which we interact with the world. When you find out that you have a brain tumor, you know that your life may be changed forever.

But a brain tumor also affects the people around you. Your family, friends, employer and coworkers. Their lives will change also. Everyone has concerns. Some go through the classic stages of grief associated with loss: disbelief, then anger and finally acceptance and depression. It is a painful time for everyone involved.

Nonetheless, you do not have the time to go through the stages of grief. You need action. Everyone needs some direction. That's what the Brain Tumor Foundation hopes to provide. Here's what I'm talking about - a plan for someone with a newly diagnosed brain tumor to follow.

First, accept that until you get this behind you, your life has changed. Call your employer and tell him or her that you have a major health issue and you require a medical leave of absence of at least 6 weeks-starting right now. Dealing with your brain tumor will be your full time job.

Here, in order of importance, is what you must now do:

The Brain Tumor Foundation • 1350 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 1200, New York, NY 10019
E-Mail: info@braintumorfoundation.org • Phone: 212.489.0600 • Fax: 212.489.0203