Please join us in helping support Raj and his family as they face many unknowns and challenges ahead.

Last week, Raj found out that he has a large mass on his brain. The mass is on the left rear/ middle of the head. It is large, and it is rare for a mass of that size to be in this location. The mass is pushing on his brain, which is causing shifting and fluid build-up. The build-up of fluid and pressure are resulting in the symptoms he is experiencing. The Mass is strongly believed to be benign, which allows for the option of surgery.

On March 27th, Raj was transferred to Hamilton for an emergency consult for surgery as his symptoms are getting worse. Based on this consult, Raj will need likely do 2 surgeries. The first surgery will be behind the left ear area, and the team will try to remove as much of the mass in that area. The risk in this area is that there are a lot of nerves and large veins while operating on a mass of this size.

The second surgery will be near the front left of the head, where the team will try to remove as much of the mass. Both surgeries will be all-day surgeries. Likely 8am to 6pm. Recovery time will be dependent on how Raj reacts post-surgery and what is required. So, this is all dependent on how healing is done post-surgery. If things go well and he recovers fast, the timing can be 3-4 weeks for surgery number 2. This is all dependent on how initial recovery is.

Surgery is planned hopefully for next week. Raj is currently back at Grand River for the next 2-3 days to monitor symptoms and is on some meds to reduce swelling and fluids. The hope is that he can go home for a bit before surgery but will need support at home at all times.

Raj and Sasha would appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. They also have two young boys.

Raj and Sasha have lots of family close by to help them with meals at this time. We would love to provide some financial support as they face many challenges over the coming weeks and months ahead. Expected financial burdens include extra time off work for Sasha, reduced income for Raj, gas/food during appointment times and potentially extra care for Raj post-surgery.

They would deeply appreciate your prayers for full healing, and that surgery would go well. Also, for strength for Raj both physically and mentally as he awaits surgery. For no serious complications and that Raj would make it through this without any serious long-term deficits. For Sasha, as she carries the weight of the next few months while still running a household with young children. For their boys, that they would know their Daddy is in the Lord’s hands and lean on Him during this time.

Raj and Sasha send their love to everyone and are so thankful for your support! Updates will be posted on this page as they become available.