When someone is told they have a brain tumour, it can feel like the world has suddenly stopped. It’s a diagnosis that shakes not only the person receiving it but also their family and friends. But with today’s medical advances and the growing power of support systems, there is more hope than ever.
Brain tumours can sound terrifying, but not all of them are cancerous. In fact, many are benign (non-cancerous), and with proper treatment, patients can go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Tumours in the brain come in different types and grades. Some grow slowly and may not cause immediate harm, while others are more aggressive and need urgent care. The exact type and behaviour of the tumour can only be confirmed following surgery through detailed testing.
Modern scanning techniques, expert surgeons, and advanced surgical tools have made brain tumour surgeries much safer. Often, doctors can now completely remove the tumour, offering a high chance of recovery and long-term wellness.
Some tumours appear in sensitive or “eloquent” areas of the brain—regions that control speech, movement, and other important functions. Treating these tumours requires special care and planning. Today, doctors even perform “awake surgeries”, where patients stay conscious during surgery so surgeons can ensure critical abilities like speech or hand movements are not affected.
Other tumours, such as those in the brain stem (the area that controls breathing and heartbeat), were once considered too risky to operate on. Thanks to newer technologies and safer surgical practices, doctors can now treat even these delicate tumours with much better outcomes & precision care.
Pituitary tumours affect hormone production. Most of these can be treated effectively with surgery or medication. Often, operations can be done through the nose, reducing the need for cuts or scars.
Acoustic schwannomas are non-cancerous tumours that grow on the nerves responsible for hearing and balance. They often cause symptoms like gradual hearing loss or unsteadiness. With modern surgical techniques, doctors can safely remove these tumours while carefully preserving facial nerve function whenever possible.
Once surgery is complete, most patients can return to their routines. Some may need follow-up treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. But even in these situations, modern treatment options are much kinder and easier to manage than they were a decade ago.
It’s important to keep regular appointments with the doctor and get routine scans done to ensure the tumour doesn’t return. Sometimes a small bit of tumour may be left behind, as it is entangled with important nerves or blood vessels, and removal of this bit may result in some loss of function for the patient. Doctors monitor these cases closely, and if necessary, they use focused radiation to control any growth.
A brain tumour diagnosis is undoubtedly overwhelming, but mental strength plays a powerful role in healing. Staying active, engaging with family and friends, and focusing on normal life as much as possible can have a giant impact on recovery. Inactivity and isolation can lead to low moods and depression, which makes the journey harder.
If you or a loved one ever feels discouraged or unable to cope, reaching out to the medical team can help. But beyond doctors and medicines, emotional support is just as vital.
That’s where support groups come in.
At CONNECT – The Brain Tumour Support Group, patients and their families find comfort in knowing they are not alone. These groups bring together people who have walked the same path—who understand the fears, doubts, and little victories that come with this journey.
Support groups offer:
Regular meetings (which are free to attend) offer face-to-face support, while an active WhatsApp group ensures help is just a message away.
It’s not just the patients who benefit. Family members too can find answers, emotional comfort, and even friendships in these circles. Social workers, counsellors, and nutritionists also contribute to guiding patients towards a healthier, happier life.
Renowned neurosurgeon Dr K. Sridhar, who leads the initiative, says support groups are an integral part of treating the whole patient. At CONNECT, we believe in a multidisciplinary approach to brain tumour care, which not only includes doctors and nurses but also social workers, counsellors, and nutritionists. This team-based care gives our patients the best chance of recovery and a good quality of life.
Research and real-life experience show that patients who feel emotionally supported recover better. They tolerate treatments well, stick to medical plans more consistently, and feel more in control of their health. Most importantly, they feel seen, heard, and understood.
So, if you or someone you know is facing a brain tumour diagnosis, remember this: you are not alone. A whole community stands behind you—full of knowledge, care, and strength. Healing goes beyond medicine. It’s about hope, connection, and the courage to move forward.
Can people live a normal life after brain tumour surgery? Yes, many patients return to normal routines after recovery. Modern surgical techniques, targeted radiation, and ongoing follow-up care allow patients to lead healthy, fulfilling lives after brain tumour treatment.
Why is emotional support important after a brain tumour diagnosis? Emotional support helps patients manage stress, stay motivated, and recover faster. Being part of a support group or community reduces isolation and improves overall well-being during and after treatment.
What is the CONNECT Brain Tumour Support Group? CONNECT is a patient and caregiver support group that provides emotional, educational, and social support. It offers regular meetings, expert talks, and a WhatsApp group for ongoing guidance and encouragement.
How do doctors ensure safety during brain tumour surgery? Surgeons use advanced imaging, awake surgeries, and precision tools to remove tumours safely while protecting vital brain functions like speech, movement, and memory.
What should patients expect during recovery from brain tumour surgery? Recovery time varies, but most patients benefit from rest, physiotherapy, and emotional support. Follow-up scans help monitor for recurrence, ensuring timely medical intervention if needed.
Dr. Krish Sridhar MBBS, DNB (Neurosurgery) Kauvery Hospital, Chennai – Radial Road
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Radial Road & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Radial Road – 044 6111 6111 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Maa Kauvery Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Kauvery Cancer Institute, Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 68011
