Mike Hawkins was diagnosed with a benign pituitary adenoma in 2009 after a routine eye appointment led to a same-day MRI and a life-changing weekend of waiting and uncertainty. What followed was a 17-year journey through four surgeries, two rounds of radiation, a stretch of 13 years thinking he was in the clear, and a gutting recurrence that brought everything flooding back. Now preparing for his first craniotomy, Mike opens up about protecting his four daughters from the fear, struggling with the unknown, and why facts and knowledge have always been his greatest source of comfort. His story is a powerful reminder that "benign" does not mean simple, and that finding the right surgeon makes all the difference.

• Vision changes were Mike's only symptom, both at diagnosis and at recurrence 13 years later
• The hardest part was the waiting and the unknown
• Asking a surgeon how many times they have performed your specific procedure is one of the most important questions you can ask
• Radiation is not always the right first step and getting a second opinion early can change your entire treatment path
• Protecting loved ones from worry is a valid choice, and there is no single right way to talk to family during a health crisis
• Benign doesn’t mean easy to treat or guaranteed to stay gone
• Regular follow-up MRIs are important even when you feel fine
• Having confidence in your medical team is something you can build through research and honest conversations with your doctor

Resources

Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms

Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources

Connect with Rewired Minds

Website: rewired-minds.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod

Instagram: @rewiredmindspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds

Be a Guest

Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request.

Disclaimer

The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.