Welcome to the Aunty M Brain Tumours Talk Show! We are honoured to have Zach Round as our guest in today’s episode. Zach talks about when he was diagnosed with Ganglioglioma, an infrequent tumour of the central nervous system, a type of brain tumour. The tumour was discovered by chance after a mountain biking accident; Zach talks in the show about having surgeries and complications. These complications led to facial reconstruction surgeries. Zach’s end goal is to connect with other survivors, offering inspiration and instilling hope. The episode concludes with Zach’s powerful analogy of facing life’s storms, leaving listeners with a message of hope.
Interview with Zach Round About His Ganglioglioma
Podcast Shownotes:
Guest Introduction:
Welcome to Zach Round’s incredible story, a tale of strength, resilience, and the power of positive transformation. In this blog post, we’ll delve into Zach’s journey from a diagnosis of ganglioglioma to overcoming numerous surgeries with a spirit that refuses to be defeated.
Diagnosis Through an Unexpected Event:
Zach’s journey began unconventionally. Diagnosed with ganglioglioma, a rare brain tumour, Zach’s symptoms weren’t the typical indicators. Instead, a mountain biking accident led to the discovery of a golf ball-sized mass in his brain during a CT scan after a serious fall.
A Blessing in Disguise:
Despite the severity of the situation, Zach’s positivity shines through. He humorously recounts the incident, emphasizing the irony of being asymptomatic but discovering the tumour due to an adventurous road gap gone wrong.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis:
January 16th, 2017, marked a turning point for Zach. The diagnosis of ganglioglioma led to a series of surgeries totalling 17, including the brain, kidney, and facial reconstruction surgeries. The challenges didn’t end there, as he faced bacterial meningitis and subsequent battles, showcasing his unwavering determination.
Facing Multiple Surgeries and Challenges:
Zach’s medical journey involved 17 surgeries, each demanding strength and perseverance. From facial reconstruction to combating meningitis, he tackled each obstacle with courage, even sharing the humour in hallucinations during recovery.
Overcoming Adversity with Humour:
Zach’s positive outlook extends to the lighter moments in the hospital, like hallucinations. His resilience is evident in his ability to find humour even in challenging circumstances.
Coping Strategies and Vision Challenges:
Living with double vision, Zach copes by focusing with one eye while adapting to vision challenges through physical therapy. His approach to challenges reflects his determination to make the most of his situation.
Mountain Biking as a Distraction:
Zach finds solace and distraction in mountain biking. Despite vision challenges, he emphasizes the intense focus required during rides, providing a unique perspective on the joy and distraction this adventurous activity brings.
The Supportive Role of Family:
Zach’s family plays a pivotal role in his journey. From advocating for his care to providing unwavering support, his parents, especially his father, showcase the strength of familial bonds during challenging times.
Tumor Warrior 67 – Inspiring Others:
Zach’s website, Tumor Warrior 67, has become a platform for sharing his story, connecting with survivors, and offering inspiration to those facing similar battles. The significance of “67” reflects his football number, emphasizing his dedication to overcoming challenges.
A Message of Hope:
Zach leaves us with a powerful analogy – life’s challenges are storms that may seem destructive but eventually pass. He encourages others to face their storms head-on, knowing that there is calm, rebuilding, and growth beyond the chaos.
Gratitude and Acknowledgment:
In closing, Zach expresses profound gratitude to his parents for their relentless support and advocacy. His journey is a testament to the impact of love, resilience, and a positive mindset in navigating life’s storms.
Zach Round’s story is an inspiration to all, reminding us that strength can be found in the face of adversity and hope can emerge from the darkest moments. His journey encourages us to embrace challenges, find humour in the midst of difficulty, and emerge stronger on the other side.
Find Zach Here:
