Diagnosis
In August 2022, at age 55, I noticed something was wrong with my right eye—my vision was blurred, as if a veil had been drawn across it. Two months later, an MRI revealed a 3.5 cm mass on my pituitary gland. On December 10, 2022, a neurosurgeon in Lyon diagnosed a clival chordoma that required urgent removal.
Treatment and Recovery
On December 28, 2022, I underwent surgery to remove the tumor. The operation was a success: the chordoma was completely resected (GTR), my pituitary and endocrine function were preserved, and my vision remained intact. I did, however, experience partial hearing loss in my left ear and persistent tinnitus.
A proton therapy plan was proposed for April 2023. After discussing options with my care team and reviewing medical literature, I learned that in some situations after a GTR, close monitoring may be considered. Taking into account potential risks to the pituitary and hormones, I chose enhanced MRI surveillance every three months instead of immediate radiation at that time.
Transformation
In March 2023, after my father passed away, I entered a period of deep personal change. I closed my company, moved from the south of France to Paris, and took time for reflection and introspection. I wanted to understand potential contributors to my disease beyond genetics—looking at emotional health, metabolism, nutrition, and lifestyle.
MRIs in August and November 2023 showed no recurrence. In February 2024, a scan revealed a small recurrence near my right carotid artery, only a few millimeters from the optic nerve. Proton therapy was recommended again, but I struggled to accept that path.
I began researching alternatives and learned more about ketogenic nutrition and patient experiences of remission shared online. Around the same time, I consulted an oncologist with expertise in metabolic approaches.
Following that consultation in May 2024, I started a personalized metabolic plan: an adapted ketogenic diet, nutritional supplements, and intermittent fasting. Further reading on metabolic therapies reinforced my commitment to this approach.
A New Life
In June 2024, my MRI showed the tumor had stopped growing. I moved to Brittany, by the ocean, to embrace life more fully. The relief was immense—I had lost 20 kilograms and felt renewed physically and mentally.
Subsequent MRIs in September and November 2024, and again in February 2025, confirmed the tumor remained stable. Over time, the ketogenic diet became not just a treatment strategy but a way of life. Although I still felt some fatigue, I gradually regained strength and energy.
By spring 2025, I began sailing courses and started renovating a boat. That summer, I returned to regular exercise and felt my spirits lift. I lost another 5 kilograms and set a new goal: to regain balance and vitality.