When Kevin Speck went to see a doctor in Japan about his leg, he never expected to learn he had a tumor the size of an egg hiding inside his skull. Now, Speck shares his account of the entire process of brain surgery, from diagnosis, to procedure, to recovery. In this memoir of experience, strength, and hope he narrates the month and a half hospital stay, life threatening pulmonary embolism complications, and the months that follow. The differences between Japanese and Western medical philosophies as well as Japanese daily life are blended into a diary entry like journey. Many patients will be able to relate to the psychological fears and curiosity they have about their illness, the experience of brain surgery, and the intrigue of the people around a loved one who is going through this process.