Gloria Jean my story is similar to yours in the beginning. The ER admitted me after finding a mass in my brain after a ct scan. I felt like they were pushing me toward brain surgery the second morning after admission so I checked myself out with a possible diagnosis of acoustic Neuroma 3.3 cm
I needed more insurance and to do my research. I am 68 years old and have had a # of surgeries and hospitalizations. I knew i might be facing a serious surgery and wanted a very experienced surgeon to drill into my head. I called Mayo Clinic at the advice of a doctor friend of mine. My husband drove me the 7 hours to meet with surgeons. I believe i had the 2 best in the west. A few weeks later I went for surgery armed with a lot a research and additional insurance. The surgery lasted 8 hours and all four of my adult children were there along with my dear husband of 42 years. It was so sad to learn that you went through surgery all alone. After 5 days in the hospital i went to rehab for 8 days. I am now in the 3rd week of home health care and think i am progressing well. I am hoping to be able to drive again but my balance needs more work. I have to fight feelings of self pity and some anger at times but I turn to doing things that cheer me up and press on.