So, I have this tumor in my head...What happened?

[@PlantBasedDads]

Hi everyone. Thanks for watching my latest video. In this video I talk about what is going on with a tumor they found in my head and what the plan of attack is for this thing. Let me know in the comments below if you have ever had to deal with this and what happened after the surgery.

[@chilldutchie8166]

I have been in a few of these procedures and it is really amazing that they can do this procedure this way vs opening the cranium.

[@mondoraj]

Also 5’2”. I had surgery 5 years ago. My tumor was pretty big because I knowingly had it for 20 years before the surgery. You may even have my dr who moved out there. I had that kind of surgery, my tumor was about 5cm. I had a vision loss on my left side. My surgery got out 2-3cm, but it was the right 2-3cm. My vision was restored, a blessing. I also had a fear of going blind and it was happening and I didn’t know it. I still need a second surgery which was scheduled but I failed a EKG so it got put off. Then COVID happened and I said no surgery until this is over. I just saw the surgeon about two weeks ago and he said it’s not any worse, but if I have a vision change again it’s time for immediate surgery. Good luck with everything. I was in the hospital longer for a skin infection (13 days) this was 7 days. Recovery was 6 weeks. Although I went back to at 4 weeks because we didn’t know if disability was going to kick in. It was too early because the surgery messed with my head.

[@janekemp3093]

My nephew had the same thing. He said it wasn't a big deal. He also has MS and eats a SAD diet.

[@sweetiepie1862]

Will be praying for you on the 20th.

[@MrAmitdaswani]

Just to lighten the mood a little bit… the procedure you described reminded me of the the Arnold movie total recall where he removed a tracker from his nose. Awesome 80s movie. Good luck with your recovery and keep on it.

[@swtswtjane]

Joey, I'm so sorry you're having to deal with this, but I'm glad you're getting it taken care of. Soon you'll be able to say, "I used to have this tumor in my head, but it's GONE now." Much love!

[@PlantBasedDads]

Thanks so much Julie. Really, I am lucky that all we are dealing with is a crusty old tumor thats not active. I can only image how this could have turned out if I was still eating the standard western diet the last 15 years. Thanks for watching and thanks so much for supporting the show!

[@carolynharvey4417]

Don't know if you know Chuck "Brand New Vegan" who had a stroke a few years ago...he was also confused and angry at first and didn't understand how it could have happened given his excellent diet. His doctor explained to him that it is a credit to his vegan diet that he had such a quick and strong recovery.

[@brandnewvegan]

I was mad as hell!

[@carolynharvey4417]

@@brandnewvegan I, and I’m sure many others who follow you, appreciate both of you sharing your experiences with such honesty

[@PlantBasedDads]

@@brandnewvegan I am right there with ya Chuck

[@rickymackin217]

My brother in law is a vegan, he reversed his diabetes. He was a pitcher of good health, he had a heart attack. His Dr. Told him, his diet is what saved his life. You are in my prayers!

[@krystyanast.pierre6607]

My niece has the exact same thing. She is having surgery in a month. She’s also 5’2” tall and the doctors told her it’s been growing for years. They are very rarely cancerous. They said her eye damage may resolve itself after the surgery. Sending you love and prayers for your journey.❤

[@PlantBasedDads]

This is the exact scenario that is happening to me. Tell her we are like kindred twins!! I am hoping my eye damage heals itself too. Thanks for sharing this with me.

[@ednamartins6352]

pituitary tumours AREN'T cancerous at all, and they don't switch. They are benign growths ...just the place where they are isn't the best.

[@ednamartins6352]

unfortunately my eye damage didn't sort it itself out, 7 years after surgery. But I was really bad on my eyesight and at least from one of the eyes is 90% better

[@barbsouthall6521]

Hey Joey this sounds like my story. I had terrible migraines for years, one day I couldn't see out of my left eye so I went for an eye test and they said my eyes look fine but suggested I see a neurologist. Long story short I had a pituitary tumor that was pressing on my optic nerve (just like you) I had the operation were they went up my nose, all went well, my eyesight came back to normal straight away and my migraines disappeared. Apparently I had been born with the tumour but it wasn't discovered until my late 50's. These tumours are usually benign, honestly you are going to be fine. I just have yearly MRI's and all has been well. Take care ❤️

[@PlantBasedDads]

Barb, thanks so much for this. I was hoping to hear from people who had this same issue. This makes me feel pretty confident that I will get through this.

[@barbsouthall6521]

@@PlantBasedDads Sorry for the late reply I'm in the UK... Glad I have given you some confidence... Just thought I would let you know that I had no pain after my operation either. Its amazing that they can go up your nose to do an operation... I wish you all the best. Please keep us posted on your recovery ❤️ x

[@belindatraviss4926]

Joey, don’t fret about the show, we’ll all still be here rooting for you sending you healing prayers. Sorry for the hassle and worry, you never know you might have a delayed growth spurt and end up 6ft tall. It will be July with it all done and healed before you know it and you will look cute in a hospital gown. Lov to you and your family.

[@ruthannlewis6471]

Lol wouldn’t that be one for us vegan’s ❤️

[@PlantBasedDads]

Belinda, my kids in my math classes are all asking about if I will be much taller next time they see me in August. It's too funny. They think that once this think is pulled off my head, I will instantly grow. I love the idea of that.

[@stefania4206]

You got this!!! You are very healthy and will heal fine!! 💚✌️

[@toniawilkes4423]

Praying for a full recovery. God bless.

[@joannesberkery7272]

💚😍Sending healing love from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@itravel3317]

I am claustrophobic too. No mri for me. No hospital stay. Good luck.

[@Iris5556]

My husband is having brain surgery on May 31st at Duke. His tumor is in his occipital lobe so they have to cut through the back to get in. He also failed the clicker test at the eye doctor, then got referred to an ophthalmologist, then a neurologist before they found it. Best wishes with your surgery and recovery!

[@phylliswarder9779]

Everyone is scared of surgery. Just do what they say and don’t push yourself. We will always be here when you recover. We love you Joey. I will be praying for you. ❤️

[@pamb3936]

Praying for a successful surgery & speedy recovery

[@nellievance]

I was diagnosed with melanoma as a vegan do I know how it feels to be mad about this but also I'm extremely lucky it was caught so early, stage zero, that it's been cut out and has made me want to be an even better vegan by going whole food plant based. Now, four years later, I'm 70 pounds lighter and an advocate of this lifestyle and encourage others to not only get checked but to also feel amazing eating this good food!! Thanks for sharing this very vulnerable subject. Sending you love and healing vibes 💚🌱

[@Carrival]

Prayers for you and for your family!! All will be well!!!

[@michellestevens6913]

Wishing you a good hospital experience and good outcome...hugss 💙💚💙

[@MrzE3zy]

♥️ I will keep you in my prayers.

[@mallorymaymay]

You are going to be just fine! Thank you for sharing and do not worry about not posting many videos! I work in a hospital and everyone wants the best for you!

[@kiml1159]

Almost 60, are you kidding? I thought you were in your early 40s! Holy Smokes! Wish you the best with the surgery!

[@traceyseymour2652]

Take care of yourself and heal well. 🤗

[@brandnewvegan]

Hey Joey, we haven't formally met, but I'm Chuck from Brand New Vegan. Today is the 12 yr anniversary of my wife's surgery, and it sounds somewhat similar to what you're going through. I didn't read all the 300 some comments here to see if someone mentioned it, but she had what they call a Meningioma, a benign tumor that was pressing up against her right eye causing massive headaches. They had to saw a hole in her skull and spend 16 hrs lasering the thing out it was so big. BTW - she's as claustrophobic as you. Anyway, she's fine today, right as rain, so no worried man. You got this. PM me sometime and we can chat or maybe do a colab.

[@PlantBasedDads]

Chuck! I know exactly who you are. Thanks so much for commenting. I am absolutely going to contact you. I am a fan bro!

[@dianeownby3696]

Prayers and God bless

[@margaretgorski7947]

I am sending you much love. Your people well be here whenever you are ready.

[@ellen9579]

🥀👍🥀 BLESSINGS. 🥀👍🥀

[@ladyinjoy1278]

Sending prayers.

[@michellet8298]

I am praying for a speedy recovery. This is a testament to vegan diet and healthy living.

[@paruvo9968]

Marked my calendar for June 20 for extra prayers that day. The removal of the tumor may be a huge blessing, answering the question of your shorter stature and difficulty losing weight even while eating whole food plant-based. Still I understand the potential for anxiety and I'm sending good thoughts your way while you count down the days until the surgery.

[@kathymclaughlin2248]

Praying for a quick recovery. Please take time to recover.

[@fluffysuds]

They found my tumor in 2018. Mine is secreting prolactin so it was huge (over 9cm). Was pushing into my cerebellum, squishing my optic nerve, even punched a hole through my nasal cavity. They told me it was growing for at least over 25 years if not more. Mine is still inoperable but has shrank with meds. It's down to 5cm. Just hope one day they can remove it. I get being mad I still am. I have other health issues from it too and even had endometrial cancer. I hope your surgery goes well. There are some great FB groups with support with a tumor that have helped me a lot too. Jen

[@beverleypettit3577]

Hello dear Joey From South Africa here. Just seen your video about looming surgery. What a situation to have to share. You're so honest, brave and vulnerable. Big hug Joey 💚 green heart for new life. It's good to see the warm responses to your plight. Please know that before I sleep tonight my prayer will have gone up for you.

[@jenniferjones7614]

The very best of luck!

[@wendyashton6091]

Very sorry to hear about this health issue. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

[@tammiepulley7167]

Sending light. I think you will be ok.

[@sherridouglas2306]

I will be thinking and praying for you just take your time

[@patriciastone6389]

Sending you All The Best ❤️👍🙏 Your going to do Great for sure ! I Know it 😊

[@LillyAnnHouston]

Praying for you.

[@ssadventures2659]

I have had a tumor on my pituitary gland for almost 8 years now. My Dr. said it’s too small to surgically remove it so she’s been trying to shrink it with medication (Cabergoline). I’m claustrophobic as well and dread the annual MRI. It’s been frustrating because the tumor is still there and has not shrunk but on the brighter side, it hasn’t gotten bigger either. Hope everything goes smoothly with the surgery.

[@susankempthorne8652]

Thank you for sharing. Sending you a long distance hug.

[@hollymalcom182]

WOW, I would never guess you are close to 60! 😲 You look incredible!! I'm so sorry you're having to deal with this. I know it must feel very scary, but I'm glad it was found before anything more happened. I'm praying for you! Praying that the surgery goes extremely well, routine, with no difficulties, with a fast and full recovery, leaving you better off than before ❤️

[@clumein2]

Amazing! You're worried about videos! LOL... Yes, scary, but YOU will be back soon giving us more great recipes and cooking tips... like my favorite sesame seed noodles... wow! No wishing you luck... you don't need it... See you soon on the next video. All good, healing thoughts coming to you from here.

[@jillmorton3096]

Sorry you have to deal with this. Big hug coming from Maine💕💕

[@PlantBasedDads]

Thanks so much

[@barbarab2765]

Joey, My best to you, i can only imagine what you went through your mind when you found all this out. I believe that because of your diet, it's the reason the tumor stopped growing. Also believe everything happens for a reason and it's past time for this tumor to be removed. Praying for God's peace and comfort for you, quick and complete healing physically and emotionally 🙏.

[@paulveg8524]

You’re going to be just fine Joey. It’s a benign condition. You will sail through it. Best wishes from London 🇬🇧

[@createwithconfidence8094]

I have had a closed MRI without any issues. A few years later, I had an anxiety attack when I had to get another MRI (never had anxiety before) and had to leave. That open MRI scheduled later was a relief but yes, MRI's are not for anyone with anxiety or claustrophobia. I didn't have either and still had a problem one time. Prayers for a good outcome and recovery.

[@victoriajankowski1197]

Often I think people forget that a reduced chance of isn't the same as a zero chance of. I'm glad your getting it dealt with hope all went well yesterday!

[@jeanniepeurasaari8499]

You will come through this with flying colors, Joey!

[@tommyleejohnson7308]

Thanks for the video. Blessings and best wishes as you deal with your health problem.

[@paulamoors]

It’s not routine if it’s new to you. God bless you.

[@liaatherton365]

Your feelings are valid! Best wishes for an uneventful procedure & a swift recovery. We’ll be here when you get back.

[@susannmesna1897]

Sending love ❤️

[@CR-zl1px]

You are amazing and will have an amazing recovery, I absolutely believe it’s because of your diet😊💕

[@bonniefuller6644]

Joey you're going to do great! In a month or so you'll be looking back and saying that you're not sure why you stressed about it! Hang in there, relax, breathe, don't worry about the video's and I can't wait to hear the video where you are telling us all about this adventure! Hang in there! You are an amazing guy and I can't wait for this to be over with for you!

[@theresastufano7628]

Sending you lots of prayers!

[@TheValerie999]

Joey, I will miss your videos but it’s good that you are taking care of yourself and the timing is perfect. You are strong and healthy and who knows you may be taller when this is all over. In the meantime I’m going to go back and enjoy all the videos you have shared with everyone. 🙏❤️

[@carolcoates8532]

I'll be praying for a successful surgery and swift recovery on the 20th. You're an awesome guy Joey!!!!!!!!!!

[@raininghispresence4188]

Our love is with you! Trust God and he will get you through this. Praying for you!

[@susanlombardo8444]

Hi Joey, I wish your surgery to go easy and resolve your eye problem. I was very sad to see how nervous you were going for your MRI, many of us had the same reactions! Glad you were able to get medication to help you. Being you eat a whole food plant based diet, will surely help you heal quickly!!!! Prayers coming your way! 👍🙏🌱

[@courtneyjackson4622]

Coming from a Neuroscience ICU nurse, YOU GOT THIS! Expect to not be allowed to blow your nose or use a straw for about a week. This is will be to avoid extra pressure on the incision in your nasal cavity. You will also have to use nasal spray every few hours in the initial healing period to keep the incision area for drying out. Also expect to have follow ups with endocrinology and potentially take hormone replacements for the rest of your life. It really just depends on how much they have to take out. I know this is a scary time. My thoughts will be with you and take your recovery one day at a time!

[@PlantBasedDads]

Thanks so much Courtney. I will update you and everyone when the surgery is over.

[@lynnemills2650]

Hope all goes well with your op in June. Thank you for all the videos that you do.

[@carinagatta]

i know that is scary news, but everything will be OK!!! ❤️🌻

[@susiepelayo4805]

Wow.. I am shocked! Try to breath, meditate a little to calm your nervous it helps. Sorry about it all tho. We're all here for you

[@Megankerry888]

“Your veins are upside down” ya that’s never good to hear. lol Joey you made me laugh during this intense story. I just know things are going to work out well for you 💚 you have the MOST positive energy. I just wanted to pop over and leave you my support and love 💗. I’ve got my notifications set to all and I can’t wait to see you back soon.

[@PearlPugh]

Praying for your comfort and healing. Bless you and your family.

[@joycatapano-t2402]

So sorry to hear this news but happy they found out now and you will get it taken care of. I will be praying for your speedy recovery as everyone will. Hang in there. Just think! You may go home 4 inches taller!!😀

[@PlantBasedDads]

Joy, my kids in math class are hoping that when they pull this tumor off that ill instantly grow a foot. HA!

[@amandak5752]

I thought you were my age- 40, maybe 45. You look great! and I know you will do great!

[@danriley3241]

Will keep you in my thoughts man.

[@amyholmes2114]

Take care of yourself

[@marisajonassaint1871]

❤ Marking the calendar for June 20th. You’ll do great. I love you honesty and I have grown to really care for you. Lots of love to you and yours.♥️

[@PlantBasedDads]

Marisa, I am surprised by all the love from people. It really makes me feel stronger going into this. I know that I have this! Thanks so much for your thoughtful message.

[@marisajonassaint1871]

@@PlantBasedDads It’s because you are so honest, real and true! You will do wonderfully! I am in Utah, Mountain Time and I will be praying for you and thinking of you and so many of us will surely be felt! Love you, Joey! Be at peace until then, please!

[@auntdayskitchen6315]

So sorry this is happening to you but I think it probably happened well before you started eating plants but please take all the time you need to recover and know that we’ll all be here praying for you and waiting for your return

[@laurablankenship3567]

Joey, you take care of you! Don't worry about videos. Focus on healing and resting as you go through this procedure. We'll send healing vibes and look forward to seeing you when you're ready!

[@starchystacy4224]

I’m glad you share your life with all. You never know who is going thru the same sorta stuff. Joey, I think this Plant Based Dad community is more than here for you!! Love and hugs!!!

[@PlantBasedDads]

The PBD Community is just amazing. I am taken back by all the kind words.

[@christined2495]

Joey, thank goodness this was picked up, you have saved your eye sight. Life throws us curves, my favorite saying now is after the storm we see a rainbow. You take al the time you need, we all love you and will be here, the main thing is you will be fine. I came on utube tonight to relax, I am scheduled for a hip replacement Next week, this was a hard year for me, 2 herniated discs and S1 joint, a meniscus tear in my knee and now a much needed hip replacement. I am nervous too, know we go thru trials and in the end all ends up ok… I’ll be praying for you. By the way, when you said you were going to be 60 I was shocked , I really thought you were a decade younger. Eating vegetables “plant based” one thing it keeps us young looking 😀 Sending healing prayers your way… xo

[@elselotte1189]

Joey, I am truly sorry to hear that ❤️‍🩹 😞 I hope you‘ll get well soon 🍀🍀🍀🍀

[@jeanjeang8914]

Prayers for you and family..so much happening in the world. Praying Gods grace to bring you through 🥰🙏

[@djmacek9903]

sending prayers and warm wishes for a successful surgery and a speedy recovery !!

[@normalopez2856]

PRAYERS and don't worry about your youtube channel we will still be waiting here for you. you just take the time you need to fully recover.

[@irisposin7983]

Joey, thanks for sharing your personal story. Sending wishes for a fast recovery that you can attribute to your WFPB diet. We love you and what you do for this community. ❤️

[@jenm4200]

Thanks for sharing your story. My daughter was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency when she was 5 - they did an mri to rule out the possibility of a tumor pressing on her pituitary gland, so it’s totally plausible that it could’ve affected your growth. Good luck with your surgery & wish you a speedy recovery!

[@betha2396]

Well, boooo. Sorry you need to face this, but I'm confident that you're going to do well and recover quickly. I also understand being pissed off about ending up with a tumor after all your work and effort in living plant based! You take care and don't worry about videos and content. We'll be here when you're ready.

[@anithaprasad2413]

Thanks for sharing.

[@PlantBasedDads]

Thanks for watching!

[@bchurchill816]

Barrow is THE BEST! And, because of your diet you will heal quickly. We will all be rooting for you.

[@PlantBasedDads]

Fingers crossed!

[@sheripalmer3192]

Thank you for sharing. I did have a friend who had this done at Stanford several years ago. She did very well with the procedure and now has follow up MRI’s to make sure it does not return. They removed hers surgically and has done very well since. They discovered hers when she complained of horrible headaches and has had none since. I understand you are angry and frustrated because of your diet and healthy lifestyle. Please be kind to yourself. Remind yourself that you are a healthy 58 year old and something can be done surgically to resolve your issue. Healing energy and prayers are coming your way. ❤️🙏

[@janetbrooks342]

Oh my goodness! Now I am mad, too, for you! I pray this will be a smooth, successful procedure and you will have a complete recovery! God bless you and your family!

[@teresahansen144]

Thank you for posting this video . I Currently, have something (not) sure what they are trying to figure it out so I have sent this to my husband as well. Maybe we are Related! Thank you!

[@debranimmo1728]

Love, hugs, and prayers.

[@maryamato5101]

Joey…it’s tuff news to hear, but your positive attitude will help you get through this. Your good health will also work in your favor. They can do amazing things today. Focus on the good life after the surgery and take the time you need to heel. Hang in there….you got this.

[@nancycosgrove4005]

Wow! Good that it was found and is very treatable. You take care of you- sending love and prayers

[@gerardolindaorozco4120]

I am sorry about the tumor! but i truly believe you will bounce back in no time!! I too believe your diet is helping you. Press on !!

[@PlantBasedDads]

Thank you so much!

[@YouHaveAGoodPoint]

I eagerly await your return but there is absolutely no hurry. Bless you and your family and may your recovery be swift! This must me so worrying but try to rely on those around you and let this community support you. See you soon !!! Good luck!!!!🍀 ❤️

[@Prairielily04]

All the best, Joey! Follow your surgeon’s guidance. Stay away from Dr. Google. You will be just fine. I’ll be sending positive thoughts your way! 🙂🌻

[@Frugalmumdownunder]

Dont worry about the show, we will all be here when tou are ready. Focus on yourself and your recovery. At least your lifestyle is setting you up for success with recovery x

[@judybelight8041]

Picturing you in divine perfection. Green drinks! Veggie soups! Select a day of the week to assess your recovery of strength and appetite and comfortable awake time. You will see a major change every week ☺️

[@dreabaronyork6658]

Please don't worry about us or the show/FB group. We'll all be here waiting for when you are ready and able to come back. Your health is the most important thing. Sending you great energy for a speedy recovery!!

[@karenmicheletti5691]

I have the same problem with MRIs. Praying for you 🙏

[@40bdg]

Sending prayers and wishing you a speedy recovery! I understand your being angry. I went through the same emotion after being diagnosed with breast cancer. You work hard to make healthy choices and then wham. My first thought was, I might as well just eat whatever I want because it didn't make any difference. But, then I thought, maybe things would've been a lot worse if I hadn't been eating healthy. It is infuriating though when you see people who eat so much processed foods and crap, and they have no health issues....I really don't get it. Take care!

[@kefirheals7383]

Thank goodness your diet has been so healthy. It probably did stop it right it (tumor) in it's tracks. Two thumbs up. Praying for you. I'm sure all will go well. Somewhere on KZbin someone said that when you're doing WFPB diet and weight isn't coming off, eliminate nuts, seeds, and bread until your body gets back on track. Who knows, maybe there's something to it.

[@PlantBasedDads]

Nuts, seeds and bread are the reason my weight is not coming off for sure!