Brain Tumour and Visual Snow

Brain Tumour and Visual Snow

I am a brain tumour survivor with a mild visual impairment.

In November 2022, doctors at North Island Hospital in Courtenay, British Columbia diagnosed me with meningioma - a "benign" form of brain tumour. The tumour had triggered enough inflammation within my brain to cause concern, and four days later, surgeons at Victoria General Hospital removed it.

My functional and professional abilities returned after recovery, but the tumour and surgery left me with a persistent mild visual impairment. I see the world 24/7 through what looks like a transparent layer of white static, like a mistuned analogue television. Neuro-ophthalmologists call the condition "visual snow". It's probably permanent.

The impairment has a minor impact on workplace interactions, and I appreciate accomodation by colleagues and associates.

Listening works great, but reading presents a challenge. Most notably, I read text more quickly when it appears in a large bold font, using a light colour against a dark background. I keep my MacOS laptop configured in "dark mode" for most applications, including Word, iTerm and Visual Studio Code. For web browsing, I use the Dark Reader Chrome extension to reverse the colours of light-background sites. I've chosen a slide theme with green text against dark grey. As a result, when I share my screen or send a screenshot, you'll see unusual and unfamiliar colours.

I've found that many people prefer "dark mode" but for me, it's necessary. Consider adjusting your slide templates and making "dark mode" a new habit in all your work; your eyes and brain might appreciate it too. In any case, when you build your slide deck, share your screen online, or send a screenshot, please consider making "dark mode" the new normal.

Web and UI designers, take note! The extra effort put into "accessibility" makes a real difference to some users. For example, test your web app with the Dark Reader extension to make sure UI controls remain visible. If you want some free feedback on your site and application designs from someone who needs the accommodation, just let me know.

I deeply appreciate all the support I've received from my professional community since the surgery. Thank you.

Vince Krochak

Videographer | Licensed Drone Operator | Content Creator

7mo

Congrats warrior ! Thank you for this ! I was diagnosed with a large meningioma in April ‘21 and surgery August ’21 could only remove half. 🤷♂️ Just a slight hiccup ! Keep inspiring !🙂

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Best wishes Francis! We miss you here at GitLab!

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Francis, I am glad to hear you survived this life changing medical condition. I wish you all the best in your continued recovery.

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Wow Francis. I did not know this happened to you. So glad you are ok and in good health! Thanks for sharing!

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Kimberly Lock

Senior Customer Marketing Manager | Customer Advocacy Champion | Ex-Google, Ex-GitLab | Enterprise Storyteller

1y

You are incredible Francis. Thank your sharing your experience and your insights.

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