Former reality television star Joe Amabile, widely known as “Grocery Store Joe,” has announced he will undergo brain surgery following the discovery of a small lesion. Amabile, who gained prominence on The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise, stated in an Instagram update that the mass was identified as a blueberry-sized glioma during a follow-up to a routine full-body scan. He is scheduled for a craniotomy within two weeks to remove the growth for further testing.
The Discovery: From Routine Scan to Surgery
Amabile’s health journey began with what he described as a routine scan using Prenuvo. According to Amabile, the initial scan identified a lesion, which prompted doctors to order a follow-up brain MRI. The diagnostic imaging confirmed a “blueberry-sized” mass that looks to be a glioma, a tumor.
The transition from a proactive health check to a surgical plan happened rapidly. “It’s been a wild couple weeks,” Amabile said in his video statement. “Definitely wasn’t expecting this.” He confirmed that the surgery is necessary to remove the tissue so that it can be tested.
Did you know?
A craniotomy is a surgical procedure where a section of the skull is temporarily removed to provide surgeons access to the brain.
Public Transparency and Personal Support
Amabile, who married Serena Pitt in 2022 after meeting on Bachelor in Paradise, acknowledged the emotional weight of his diagnosis. While he admitted to initial hesitation regarding how much to share on social media, he decided to be open with his followers. “I’ve gone back and forth about what I wanted to share on social media but ultimately, this is now part of my life now, so might as well,” he noted.
He emphasized that the tumor was caught in the “really early stages,” expressing hope that surgeons will be able to remove the entire lesion. He continues to share updates with his audience while relying on support from his family and friends.
The Rise of Preventative Full-Body Imaging
Amabile’s experience highlights the “whirlwind” nature of these discoveries. While the scan provided the early detection he was seeking, it triggered a rapid sequence of medical interventions, including the MRI and the upcoming craniotomy.
Before opting for elective full-body diagnostic scans, consult with a primary care physician.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a glioma?
A glioma is a tumor.
Why is a craniotomy performed?
A craniotomy is performed to remove a tumor so doctors can test it.
How did Joe Amabile find his tumor?
Amabile discovered the lesion during a routine, preventative full-body scan, which then necessitated a targeted brain MRI to confirm the findings.
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