This year, to spread awareness of Acoustic Neuromas and encourage other brain tumor warriors, the ANA asked folks to share milestones and triumphs since their brain tumor diagnosis. My new goal achieved this past year has been practicing aerial yoga. As my brain tumor destroyed my balance nerve on one side, balance is something I have to work harder at than the average person. Because I know I have this weakness and that if I don’t keep practicing my balance I will backslide, I purposefully fill my exercise regimen with things that challenge my balance, such as yoga.

I had heard of aerial yoga and thought it looked really cool but was worried it was beyond my capabilities. I happen to have a really amazing and supportive yoga instructor who encourages me to go further and try new things, and she supported me in beginning an aerial yoga practice. As it turns out, it definitely exercises my balance but also the silks help support me and assist me so I do feel secure. I am proud of myself for trying this and proving my self doubt wrong. Honestly, it is just plain fun.