Support Matthew fallfield through his journey w/cancer

Mark Bissonette Start Date: Feb 6, 2020 - End Date: Jun 2, 2020
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip
  • California, United States of America

My Travel Story

by: Mark Bissonette Start Date: Feb 6, 2020 - End Date: Jun 2, 2020
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip
In December 2019, we learned that our dear brother / friend, Matthew, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Matthew had an MRI after experiencing some vision loss. The MRI revealed a large mass on the left side of his brain. After a biopsy on December 2nd, 2019, it was determined to be Stage IV Glioblastoma.

Matthew was told that the tumor was inoperable, however; was urged to get a second opinion. He and Deanna, his wife of 15 years, traveled to Massachusetts to get two second opinions. After having reviewed his scans for 5 hours, a neurosurgeon at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, was willing to operate. Four days later, on December 23, 2019, Greg underwent a 9+ hour surgery to remove a large part of the tumor.

The surgery resulted in more and longer-lasting side effects than originally anticipated by his surgeon and his family. His vision was also further impaired and continues to be; he is unable to drive. Matthew was involved in physical, occupational, and speech and language therapies at an in-patient rehab facility for a little over a week (12/30-1/8) and continues to receive these services through out-patient care. Each day he makes great progress, and we are so proud of his hard work.
  • California, United States of America