11/24/10 - Synopsis from a doctor-friend: Dr. Steve Surratt

Rick ask me to again fill you in on the latest news with his health. 

A lot happened today.  There are some answers.  The MRI from two days and 2 1/2 years ago confirms that there is an abnormality that is most likely a small benign tumor.  This is a subtle finding on the MRI and was not seen 2 1/2 years ago--i.e. it was missed.  It hasn't changed significantly, and given the type of tumor that it appears to be, it likely hasn't changed in years--it was probably even present 20 years ago when his seizures began.  This tumor has also likely been the cause of his seizures all along.  The tumor needs to be removed at some point, but not urgently.  The good news is that removal of the tumor should cure his seizures and the location of the tumor is in a safe place for removal with a very low risk of any loss of brain function.  The surgery can also be done using a "gamma knife" so that no real cutting occurs--all done with high energy radiation.  Another piece of good news.  Rick is planning to see a neurosurgeon in the next couple of weeks to discuss his options.

The other news is that based on a sleep test he had several weeks ago, he has pretty severe sleep apnea.  His neurologist thinks this is contributing to his seizures and that some of his seizures may actually be apneic episodes--i.e. he stops breathing and his brain doesn't get enough oxygen.  So, he will be getting a c-pap machine soon.  This should help as well. 

A lot of info, but Rick wanted me to bring you all up to speed.  He also wanted me to go ahead and get it out there that if his brain surgery requires him to shave his head, he reserves the right to have a full Mohawk and to dye it green!  Great photo op.

Guys, let's continue to pray specifically that God will heal and remove this tumor and when Rick has a follow up scan to localize the tumor for surgery, it won't be there.  Jesus, be Rick's surgeon.  Let's also pray that his seizures will cease for good.