A meningioma brain tumor is a type of tumor that develops from the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. Most meningiomas are benign, but as they grow, they can press on surrounding brain tissue and cause various symptoms.
Common symptoms include increasingly frequent or severe headaches, seizures, vision problems, weakness on one side of the body, balance disturbances, and even changes in behavior or memory. If left untreated, the tumor may continue to enlarge and increase pressure inside the skull, potentially leading to serious neurological complications.
Recently, a figure widely known online as Elder Storyteller, Mr. GBD, underwent surgery to remove a 4×4 cm meningioma brain tumor with Dr. dr. Mardjono Joy Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS, commonly known as Dr. Joy, at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri.
“During the surgery, about 99% of the tumor was successfully removed. The CT scan and MRI results confirmed that it was very clean. After the surgery, we thought our dad might go into a coma, need ICU care, or lose his ability to walk, talk, or remember things. But surprisingly, he didn’t need ICU care and was moved directly to a regular inpatient room. He immediately recognized us. The next day he could already sit up and stand, and by the third day he was able to walk. We truly didn’t expect such a recovery,” said Mr. GBD’s daughter happily.
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The Beginning of the Symptoms: A Seizure During a Family Meal
Mr. GBD, also known as Elder Storyteller, is an inspirational content creator on social media, particularly Instagram. He is known for sharing touching life stories and his journey as a father figure to Jimat and other children. Through his content, he spreads messages of love, resilience, and the determination to give the best to his family despite growing up without a strong father figure himself.
The story began when Mr. GBD suddenly experienced a seizure while having a meal with his family. His daughter, Angel, explained that the incident occurred on January 25, prompting the family to immediately take him to the hospital for further medical evaluation.
After undergoing CT scan and MRI examinations, doctors discovered a brain tumor located on the left side of his head, behind his left eye. The tumor was pressing on nerves and nearby brain structures, which caused several symptoms that had previously gone unnoticed as signs of a brain tumor.
According to Angel, there had actually been several warning signs over the past year, but the family initially did not realize they were related to a brain tumor.
Mr. GBD had occasionally appeared less confident while walking, as if experiencing vision problems. At first, the family assumed it was simply common nearsightedness. However, the tumor located behind his left eye was actually pressing on the optic nerve, leading to impaired vision.
In addition, Mr. GBD had experienced two sudden falls. During those moments, he seemed briefly “blank” or lost his balance. Further medical examinations eventually revealed that the cause was a meningioma brain tumor measuring approximately 4×4 cm.
Doctors explained that smaller tumors can sometimes be monitored without immediate surgery. However, because Mr. GBD’s tumor had already grown relatively large, surgical removal became a recommended treatment option.
Initially Afraid of Surgery at Age 67, But Reassured by Dr. Joy
After learning about the brain tumor, Mr. GBD and his family consulted several doctors to find the best treatment option. They also shared the story through Mr. GBD’s social media accounts, which are followed by many people.
Among the responses they received, many recommended consulting Dr. Joy at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri.
At first, Mr. GBD felt very afraid to undergo brain surgery. At the age of 67, he was worried about the risks involved. The family had also heard many stories about brain surgery not always being successful, which added to their concerns.
However, after finally meeting Dr. Joy for a direct consultation, Mr. GBD felt more comfortable and confident about proceeding with the brain tumor removal surgery.
Brain Tumor Surgery with Neuronavigation Technology
Dr. Joy explained that Mr. GBD initially came with seizure symptoms. MRI results revealed a relatively large brain tumor that had already caused visual disturbances in the left eye.
Therefore, surgery was performed with the goals of eliminating the seizures, improving vision, and relieving other symptoms.
During the procedure, the surgical team used neuronavigation technology, which functions like a GPS system for the brain. This technology allows surgeons to visualize the tumor’s exact location with high precision, enabling a more accurate surgical approach.
The tumor was located directly behind the left eye and was even wrapped around nearby blood vessels. With the assistance of neuronavigation, a surgical microscope, and nerve monitoring tools, the medical team was able to carefully separate the tumor from surrounding critical structures.
As a result, almost the entire tumor was successfully removed, with a clean removal rate of around 99%, confirmed by postoperative CT scan and MRI results.
A Surprisingly Fast Recovery After Surgery
Initially, the family expected Mr. GBD to undergo a long recovery process after brain surgery. They were worried he might experience a coma, lose his ability to speak, or require treatment in the ICU.
However, the outcome turned out to be far beyond their expectations.
After the surgery, Mr. GBD did not need ICU care and was immediately transferred to a regular inpatient room. His consciousness returned well.
The following day, he was already able to sit and stand. By the third day after surgery, he could walk along the hospital corridor and began physiotherapy.
Even more surprising, within just a few days he was already able to do exercises such as walking on a treadmill and cycling for 4–5 kilometers, which brought great relief and happiness to his family.
Treatment Experience at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
In addition to the successful surgery, Mr. GBD’s family was also satisfied with the care they received during their stay at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri.
Angel shared that the nurses were very patient and gentle while caring for patients. Even her father, who she described as a rather perfectionist and talkative patient, felt comfortable throughout the treatment process.
The service from the moment they arrived was also very helpful, from staff assisting with luggage to fast administrative processes.
The comfortable room facilities even prompted Mr. GBD to joke that the place felt more like a hotel than a hospital.
A Message for Patients and Families Facing Similar Situations
At the end of her story, Angel shared a message for other families who may be facing similar situations, especially when a loved one is diagnosed with a brain tumor.
According to her, the most important thing is to stay calm and avoid panic when making medical decisions. She also suggested seeking second opinions from several doctors before determining the best treatment plan.
The experience of Mr. GBD’s family shows that with the right information and treatment from experienced specialists, brain tumor surgery can produce positive outcomes.
Therefore, if someone experiences symptoms related to neurological disorders or brain tumors, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon as early as possible to receive appropriate treatment.
Dr. Joy’s Profile and Practice Schedule at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Dr. dr. Mardjono Joy Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS, commonly known as Dr. Joy, is a neurosurgeon specializing in cerebrovascular diseases. He is widely recognized for his expertise in treating complex neurological disorders, particularly those involving brain blood vessels and brain tumors.
Dr. Joy earned his doctoral degree from the University of Helsinki, Finland, where his research focused on brain aneurysms. His work contributed to a deeper understanding of aneurysm formation mechanisms and improved clinical approaches for managing this condition.
In addition to treating patients, Dr. Joy is also active in academic and health education activities. He is the author of the book “Memahami Aneurisma Otak” (Understanding Brain Aneurysms), which has been published in two editions. The book discusses brain aneurysms comprehensively, covering causes, disease mechanisms, diagnostic methods, and available treatment options.
In his daily practice, Dr. Joy has extensive experience managing high-complexity neurosurgical cases, including:
- Brain aneurysms
- Cerebral blood vessel stenosis (narrowing of brain vessels)
- Brain hemorrhage
- Brain tumors
- Brain cancer
Supported by extensive clinical experience, a strong academic background, and international training at leading neurosurgical centers around the world, Dr. Joy is recognized as one of the experienced neurosurgeons in Indonesia. His expertise is frequently sought for cases involving brain vascular disorders and brain tumors that require precision and advanced medical technology.
For patients who wish to consult, Dr. Joy practices at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri with the following schedule:
- Monday: by appointment
- Tuesday: 14:00 – 17:00 WIB
- Wednesday: by appointment
- Thursday: 08:00 – 12:00 WIB
- Friday: 14:00 – 17:00 WIB
- Saturday: 08:00 – 12:00 WIB
To make your visit easier, you can use the WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment service, or the Care Dokter application, available for download on Google Play and the App Store, to book appointments, check queue numbers, and access additional information.
