Had my first appointment with the neurosurgeon this afternoon... two weeks since the diagnosis. I can almost breathe a sigh of relief. My doctor recommended we leave the AVM alone as is as it's a grade 1, I'm asymptomatic and it's in a position where it can be left without causing any harm. I can breathe a small sigh of relief, but will have to have an angiogram to determine whether there's any pressure in the vein. However, the surgeon is optimistic. I will get a second opinion to be as sure as possible, but for now, his diagnosis is that I have more of chance of rupture if we interfered with it than if left alone, and whilst it may sound better to just remove it as it's small enough, it wouldn't be advisable to do so. I will have to be monitored though thereafter - but that's ok. I couldn't believe it when he uttered the words that I made him repeat what he said a second time around and more slowly!!! I'm so incredibly grateful for this grace and feel so blessed. I sincerely hope and pray for good news, speedy recoveries and success for everyone on this site and for those who are not, that they may receive the same blessing as I have. I'm humbled by the battle that people with AVM are fighting everyday and I want them to know that they're not alone. Somewhere, someone is always praying that their journey is as easy as possible and I am one of those who will be fervently praying for them. I'm also uplifted by those who are living so positively with this - whilst I said in my previous blog about choosing life as usual, it is a relief to hear it from the doctor. I don't mean to preach - I'm actually writing this in a rather emotional state, but I sincerely believe that the Almighty doesn't give us any more than we can handle, and for those with AVM (and this might sound weird), you're amongst the strongest people I have had the privilege of coming across. And in memory of those who have passed - you're a face among the stars and an angel in Heaven - and ever more you shall be remembered - and to your family and friends, you're never alone for you will always be in my prayers and thoughts and may your grief ease with time and your memories bring you comfort.