GBM

Hi Everyone!

It's been over a year since my husband had his tumor removed done pretty good thus far.  Now he has a tumor in the cerebium, he drags his left leg and can hardly use his left hand, this is killing me to see.  We have been told that it may be swelling or fluid on the brain.  The MRI showed tumor growth but not enough to cause this, has anyone experienced this?  No one seems to be worried about it but me. Please will someone share with me.

Scared and Can't Sleep

Hi Deena,

Darlin, you are in my thoughts and prayers.  I think we ALL know that sickening feeling when a symptom returns or a new one arises.  We are at these times reminded that we now live day to day.  It's our curse, but also a blessing b/c we now truly know how precious life is. 

Now, have your docs suggested anything to counteract swelling? (like decadron).  I am wondering why they wouldn't want to understand the symptoms better. Can you get a second opinion?

Keep asking questions.  Praying for you.

janni (wife of Steve gbm iv dx 11/07)

Wow! Just read your posting and couldn't believe you're seeing  similar symptoms, as I am with my husband (dx. 8/07 GBM IV)  He's shown progressions twice before, but never with clinical symptoms like these.  His tumor is on the left frontal lobe, so he's been dragging his right leg and his right arm is weaker, but still can use it.  Very WOBBLY though.   Was put back on decadron after being off since Jan. 08.  It causes him to be SO WEAK.  I can't really tell what weakness is a result of tumor or meds.  I just emailed our doctor to ask for another option to decadron.  I know what I'm seeing is likely tumor activity, but I can't help but hope that it is pronounced more by the medications he's taking.  It's just so hard to distinguish. 

We are at the point of a walker and wheelchair, if needed.  He's fallen 3 times this weekend, but hasn't been injured.  We've actually laughed at it, which is good considering the circumstances.  I just hope we can remain light-hearted for as long as this disease will allow. 

Hang in there!  You've got support from those of us going through the same things.  Worry, fear, anger.............should I keep going?  It's all part of this journey.  Feel free to contact me anytime.  It helps to share our feelings with those going through similar circumstances.

 KB1263

Deena and KB,

 Please speak to your doctors about increasing the dosage of steroids for your husbands.  Mine had the exact same symptoms--dragging a leg and arm weakness.  We were sure the tumor was growing, but we wondered if it could be swelling.  The doctor agreed to raise his steroid dosage.  Within a few days, he was back to normal.  Prayers and best wishes!!

Jennifer