Monica Singer was diagnosed with a meningioma in 2012. “I could not believe that the meningioma was so big. I had been suffering with vertigo and dizziness for about a year, but I could not believe I had not really noticed it. Because I travelled a lot, I thought it could be jet lag or ear problems. Then I had a brain MRI that showed the extent of the tumors.”
Monica then had traditional surgery to have the meningiomas removed – there were several, each a different size. Her skull was opened for the surgery.
“After the brain surgery in 2012, I recovered. However, one of the tumors could not be extracted because it had grown inside a main artery, so it was cauterized and left. I had to have an annual an MRI to ensure it did not grow.
“In 2016, the tumor started growing. I consulted with a specialist at Milpark Hospital. My tumour was studied, and the recommendation for Gamma Knife radiosurgery was made.
“My Gamma Knife surgery was a great experience. The team were super caring and professional. The only challenge was the thought of having the pins inserted into the skin in my head. But the procedure was fast and painless.
“I have had an MRI every year until 2019 when the doctor and I concluded that the tumor had not grown and there was a good chance it has been nuked. I have not had any more MRIs since then, though I may have one once COVID-19 has settled down just to make sure it is not grown back,” says Monica.
“It is now 2021 and I feel great!”
