Brain Surgery and Recovery for Eric Boler

Eric D. Boler, at 35 years old. Second Awake Craniotomy in Ten years. Astrocytoma Grade 2.

In early 2013 I made several ER visits for bad headaches, nausea and excessive vomiting. Finally, on June 18th I had the same symptoms but now my right arm was burning and had seizures this time. I was accompanied by my mother and fiancé who became my wife on July 14, 2013. The ER decided to do a CT that revealed a tumor the size of a small plum. It was a surreal moment. After multiple neurology and Neurosurgeon appointments, my surgery was scheduled shortly after my 26th birthday. The first and second attempts of my surgery could not be performed because I kept having seizures on the operating table. Once they were able to control my seizures the surgery went off and I have been in remission for nearly ten years. Did several weeks of PROTON radiation, not sure yet what they will do after this surgery. I still have right-side weakness, memory and speech issues. My hair never grew back where my incision is (smile). I thank GOD daily for getting me through each day.

Fast forward to November 2022. Hospitalized with excruciating headaches and excessive vomiting again. Multiple test runs (CT, MRI, EEG) and appointments with my neurologist. The neurosurgeon reviewed all 40 scans at Semmes Murphy-Memphis. On January 31st, 2023, my wife and I received the news that a new tumor has developed and needs to be removed. Within 48 hours I got a call to schedule my surgery for February 23rd, 2023.

Yes, I am afraid, to say the least, but I know GOD got me.

My wife and I both work for a major warehouse/retail company. After we have exhausted most of our PTO from November to date we won’t have enough time accumulated to continue to get paid enough money to cover our daily living expenses. I will receive short-term disability, which pays up to 60% up to a certain limit. My spouse will be approved for leave without pay. After surgery, we are facing a few months of recovery time Physical therapy and chemo/radiation.

My family plans to help us out as much as possible, but in today’s economy, everyone is struggling in some capacity. I don’t usually ask for help like this, but the costs of food and rent have risen so dramatically over the last two years. I just need to do this so we can stay in our home. Any donations will be greatly appreciated, small or large will go towards helping my family and myself. Thank you in advance for your support. Please share our post even if you are not able to donate. Blessings to all of you.