This week’s story comes to us from Eric, a writer and founder of mAss Kickers Foundation. Eric, age 34, is a survivor diagnosed in 2005 with a meningioma. He blogs regularly and describes his experience below.

Please tell us a little about what you were doing when you were first diagnosed or had symptoms.

I was working as a newbie physical therapist in San Diego in 2005. I had just graduated from physical therapy school with my Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. I was getting ready for my new career in an exciting new city. I started getting dizziness, headaches, and nausea. When I started getting facial numbness (frequently biting my tongue and cheek) I knew something was up.

What is one piece of advice you would have for someone who is newly diagnosed?

A brain tumor is not necessarily a death sentence. Whether it is malignant or non-malignant it still a pretty big deal! You have to be your own advocate! Don’t let anyone tell you, “Oh it’s benign… you’ll be fine.” By the way, I hate the word benign. Non-malignant is a more appropriate term when it comes to brain tumors.

What have you learned from this experience?

I am still learning patience, but I have also learned that I am capable of many things I never would have imagined. I wrote and published a book, traveled the country three times on national book tours, and have started a nonprofit organization (www.mAssKickers.org) geared towards the newly diagnosed tumor/cancer patient AND their loved ones.

What is the most helpful thing someone has said or done for you?

Walking is a big issue for me right now because I have impaired balance and coordination. I was doing triathalons and long distance races before I had surgery. I really missed the athletic environment. With the help of my friends, I have completed five 5K walks.

If you use a creative outlet or form of expression?

Blogging/creating videos.

Describe your experience/journey in three words:

Eye-opening, challenging, barrier-busting

Did you name your tumor?

I’m a big football fan. It was named “Amani Toomer” like the former University of Michigan and New York Giant wide receiver. He was at one point on one of my fantasy football teams. That team kept losing!

If you could pass legislation to help the brain tumor community, what would it be?

I don’t think there should be a medical insurance cap on physical or occupational therapy for neuro-rehab for brain tumors. Some neurological conditions require extended time. I’ve had to stop and start therapy numerous times. Much of the therapy is geared towards independence at home. If patients truly want to do go beyond independence, they have to find other means to do it. I think many brain tumor patients get cut off before they reach their fullest recovery potential.

If you could have your own personal theme song, what would it be?

Would I have to make one up? To the tune of, “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor also known as the Rocky III song, “Eric… Eric Galvez. Eric Galvez…Eric Galvez is cool". You get the picture.

If I had to choose one song it would be "Everlong" by the Foo Fighters.