Dear Rose4622, my tumor was found after a visit to the ER because I had fallen, broken my arm, and hit my head pretty bad. They referred me to a neurosurgeon and I was scheduled for an MRI. After the MRI, I saw the neurosurgeon and he told me about the meningioma. I've had balance problems for about two years now, but only a little nausea, no vomiting. I do have minor headaches as well, a few bad headaches, and some eyesight problems. I am not sure these symptoms are part of the tumor. I am scheduled for a second MRI on August 3rd because the neurosurgeon told me the tumor is close to where a major artery runs through my brain. They will do a two-part MRI, first to check if the tumor is growing and second to see if it is altering the blood flow. The neurosurgeon told me that if the tumor is growing, I may have to have radiation. I've read here where some folks have had gamma knife radiation with success, but I have not researched that yet. Also, I'm with you as far as surgery is concerned, but I would probably seek a second opinion if surgery is recommended. I wish I could offer you more information, but this is all I know about it so far. I want you to know that, I, too, am concerned about having to have surgery, so I can understand your hesitance. Please let us know how you are doing and the results of your meeting with a neurosurgeon. I hope this helps a little, and please know there are many of us here to support you.

You (like me ) may have no choice once it interferes with your balance and motor skills. No one wants to have brain surgery even saying it can be devastating but it will give you back a quality life. It was not easy but would do it again if it meant a good quality life.