Life as a pilot after brain surgery

Рет қаралды 53,272

Күн бұрын

It's done! I had brain surgery to remove a tumour - here's my experience of brain tumor surgery, see how the operation went, what happened in hospital, and what my future looks like for me after the tumour was removed. It's great to be Back from brain surgery.
There are some details of my operation and brain tumour pathology that I've chosen not to include in this video as I want to keep some aspects private, I hope you can understand.
Aviation books that will make you a better pilot: www.stef747.com/general-aviat...
Follow Michael's adventures on his channel here: / @southernsuntv

Пікірлер: 625

@Icehippieviking1001 2 ай бұрын

Licensed VFR private pilot here. I'm also a 13 year breast cancer survivor. It's wonderful that you're getting better! Take your time and relax. You will get back in your airplane before you know it!

@StefanDrury 2 ай бұрын

Thank you for the encouragement, and I’m so glad to hear you survived your health scare as well.

@mittman9977 2 ай бұрын

Congrats Ice Hippie Viking 1001 on your wonderful health success!

@aussiesmoko 2 ай бұрын

Remember Stefan.. You carnt stop the sun going down. You have no magical powers to turn thing in your favour. Where is the rule that says everything must go my way every time something happens. I was involved in a heavy vehicle crash that resulted in the death of 5 people. 1 year ago today actually, It was proven I was not at fault in any way . Just take your time Stefan, keep exercising. You'll know in yourself when you want to get back flying The last twelve months I've done more exercising than in the last 10 years. Was very sceptical of exercising. But I can see and feel the benefits. Another thing I got told by the trauma councillor was to quit caffeine, have decafe instead, nicotine, excessive sugar , alcohol. These drugs after even one cup of coffee can stay in your bloodstream up to 14 hours , effecting the chemical procedure of producing endorphins , and other chemicals that are needed to make your brain healthy and alert. Best wishes for your future. I wanted to be a pilot. But that dream probably won't come true now. I've been up in ages planes when the pilot was spreading fertiliser, what a ride that was I've had a few goes at the control of an aircraft. Just take your time Stefan , don't push yourself and you'll be back flying in no time Take care

@harrysvideos625 2 ай бұрын

@@StefanDrury it’s your nephew, Harry

@garettbartos6764 2 ай бұрын

Hey Stefan. Really great to see you again and that the surgery was a success and is now behind you! Looking forward to seeing you in the air again when the time is right for you to start the next chapter!

@madmoo2658 2 ай бұрын

A pause in life is just a pause, and I'm glad you've hit play again.

@bugged120 2 ай бұрын

Oh Stefan I'm so happy to see your smiling face!!!!!!!!!! Take care legend!!!!!!

@howietraining 2 ай бұрын

Sat morning, cup of coffee, empty the dishwasher, feed the cat and suddenly I’m watching this and I’m in tears. Thanks for sharing, and thanks for the reality check. Hope the recovery is swift and you’re back in the air soon.

@marty_k87 2 ай бұрын

Never clicked so fast! Glad to see you back.

@anesukafesu7875 2 ай бұрын

Same

@sweetiedarl6802 2 ай бұрын

Me too!

@rogerdelisle 2 ай бұрын

Same here.

@rjmilne1 2 ай бұрын

Hi Stef, I am a commercial pilot, own a Cirrus SR22 too and have been watching you for years. Your youtube content is something my wife and I can always agree on is great content. I lost my medical owing to an eye condition years ago and got it back against all odds. My wife is a breast cancer survivor and is doing so well despite being told otherwise. We just want to say you are an absolute legend, we love watching your videos and we wish you a fast recovery and know you will be back to flying before you know it. Go well!

@stewartmichie9798 2 ай бұрын

Was thinking about you just the other day as a Cirrus flew over my home. Glad you're well!

@StefanDrury 2 ай бұрын

Haha, glad I've had that effect on the world of aviation! Thanks Stewart.

@kareemmarwan7469 2 ай бұрын

On my mind and in my prayers Stefan. Kareem here, surgeon and student pilot. Huge fan of yours 💚

@Hex2906 2 ай бұрын

3:40 made me tear up. What a great video

@ghostchips7204 2 ай бұрын

Stef definitely has the knack for storytelling! I had a tear or two at that point also.

@Hex2906 2 ай бұрын

@@ghostchips7204 Its like listening to my dad giving advice to me

@wernerwillemse3602 2 ай бұрын

Yup, I had a tear too. Stef’s story should be an inspiration to us all: cherish life, be positive, and fly more ✈️❤️

2 ай бұрын

Good to see you back looking so well. Godspeed on your new journey. You will get to where you need and want to be.

@lexhofstetter 2 ай бұрын

This made my month. It always feels like Stef is a family member❤️ love this news.

@gimpsunlimited2505 2 ай бұрын

Part 121 ATP here, came back from initial episode of Transverse Myelitis, spinal cord surgery etc. Regained medical, had a good 14 year run after that.

@nemosandman 2 ай бұрын

Quel plaisir de vous revoir mon cher Stefan! Pardon my French but I’m so happy to hear from you.

@ivanb52 2 ай бұрын

good to hear. my wife (not a pilot) had a golf ball sized tumour removed 22 years back, and has been good ever since.

@letsseeif 2 ай бұрын

I learnt to fly at Moorabbin in 1957. In 2000 I had a radical prostatectomy and two lots or ray treatment. I'm still going strong in 2024. Get well Stefan. We need you back flying.

@davidtesch3205 2 ай бұрын

All that matters is that you are healthy !! Prayers answered. !!! PS, Its ok to hug your plane, I give mine a kiss after every visit !!!

@adampotrykus 2 ай бұрын

So good to hear about this. I was going to OZ for the Adelaide Fringe Festival and had just found out that I might have cancer. Got loads of scans and tests before leaving, and while IN Australia, I found out that it was a false alarm, BUT the world did stop for a while... With so many people around us getting cancer, your story gives others hope!

@richard--s 2 ай бұрын

It's great that you are recovering good! Don't hurry, take your time. That's good for your health too. And don't worry about the background noise, it just adds some realism to your video. Yes, we are there with you when we watch the video, it's not a voice over in a studio, it was really recorded there, great! The microphone is so good, it records your voice very well and the background noise is just in the background. It's perfect! It's real!

@stevies.1975 2 ай бұрын

Stef. I am so pleased to see you survived your surgery fully and practically looking back to normal. Your positivity gives hope to all and I continue to love your posts. Hope to see you back piloting soon.

@across8339 2 ай бұрын

Do it, do it, do it, Stef! Take us with you around the world, we would all love to go.

@mv120m 2 ай бұрын

Der Traum von Fliegen geht weiter, Gott sei Dank das es solche guten Ärtzte gibt.

@philipguacci6452 2 ай бұрын

Did Milkshake miss you. We sure did. Glad to see you back. Hospital is not fun. I have seen my fair share of operating theatre over my 63 years. My sister is the same. So many surgery. Any way best wishes. Much love to you and your family.

@kriswicks8027 2 ай бұрын

The community as a whole are very happy that you made it out the other side tumourless 🙌 can’t wait to see you back in the blue mate ☀️

@prussiaaero1802 2 ай бұрын

Stef asked if he could anaesthetise himself. Doctor said “sure, knock yourself out.” You look and sound great Stef!

@thomasdavis5514 2 ай бұрын

Wow Steph we are in parallel universes. Last year I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I disclosed that diagnoses at my FAA Medical (USA) and promptly had my Medical Certificate suspended pending treatment. I occasionally flew my plane (SR22) with fellow pilots who could act as PIC. After my surgery (and yes, it is weird to go under and wake up with absolutely no memory of what happened or how long it lasted), and deemed cancer free, the FAA reinstated my Medical Certificate nearly 8-1/2 months later. Like you I am back with an instructor to sharpen my IFR skills and prep for an IPC. So glad you are on the mend and thank you for sharing your journey with all of us.

@spiro5327 2 ай бұрын

You are back baby, haha. So glad to see you back mate. You are looking well and i hope you are feeling well. Maybe you can take us on one of your walks and stop at a local cafe for a chat. Thank you Stef

@Travelingchefmark 2 ай бұрын

Brother !🎉 I can’t believe you’re filming and up already ! Man this makes my day! Thank God for you dude 👏

@TimNjiru 2 ай бұрын

Always inspired by your videos. Just from my Medicals a few hours ago and now applying for my SPL to be back. Crossing fingers for that. Wishing you a quick recovery.

@PedroThePortuguesePilot 2 ай бұрын

You are such a force!!!! Wayyy before you know it, you’ll be back up flying the echo youtube Zulu. Very happy to see you smiling and in good spirits. That’s the best response you can give to a problem

@memomemo9966 2 ай бұрын

🎉🎉🎉 Happy ending in real life feels so much better than in hollywood! So glad to see you back here!

@cap10bc 2 ай бұрын

If you'll stop in Italy for your Roud the World Trip, I will be glad to host you! Looking forward to seeing you here!

@ranh71 2 ай бұрын

Very Happy for you Stefan!! Glad your on the mend. See you in the skies soon.

@williammickelson403 2 ай бұрын

Glad to hear the surgery was successful. God is great!

@peterclark2230 2 ай бұрын

Mate IT"S GREAT to see you up and about, can't wait to see you PIC again.

@ProPilotPete 2 ай бұрын

I prayed for you. So glad you’re doing well, I’m confident you’ll be back flying, perhaps around the world! Please make KGSO a stop along the way, would love to meet you in person,

@benderrodrigues7730 2 ай бұрын

So happy for you Stef. Can't wait for you to get back in the air and exploring our wonderful country.

@rayroche94 2 ай бұрын

Great to see you back, and to see you so positive. There is not enough good news in this world at present, but this is definitely good news. Ray

@HossainSiddiqui 28 күн бұрын

Glad to see you back. Wishing you full recovery and want to see you in the sky soon!

@curtisgarcia5767 2 ай бұрын

Never commented on a KZfaq video in my life, but had to say I was very happy to see this update. Came across your channel a few weeks ago (I can’t remember how 😂). I’m 41 with a newborn baby girl and you’ve definitely made me stop and think! Here’s to you getting your medical and confidence back! Cheers

@stevenwilgus8982 2 ай бұрын

I'll say it: thanks to GOD you did so well. I'm one of those ICU Registered Nurses who care for folks. So I am SO happy. Hope you get to flying soon. Oh. I'm a Private Pilot SEL. MAKE HASTE SLOWLY. Start back, and enjoy, be kind to yourself so you can refresh SKILLS.

@PlaneGeek007 2 ай бұрын

wonderful news!!!! glad to have you back. live a boring and happy life with no surprises. friendly and safe skies always for you. Cheers!

@michaelroby6538 2 ай бұрын

This past weekend I turned 70. Six summers ago I was still hiking 14’ers. But my knees are gone now. Last year I had a blip on my medical that grounded me. Never take it for granted.

@andimuhjafar 2 ай бұрын

Stefan I’m your viewer from Indonesia. I always loved your video and tried to simulated those on xplane 11 in the past. I just known you had a brain surgery, while it is sad to be diagnosed having a tumor, I’m really happy that you are recovering well. Thanks for your dedications for this channel. Love from Indonesia 🇮🇩

@Maviation 2 ай бұрын

Just so lovely to hear back from you! You will get back in your airplane before you know it! Keep your spirit up!

@esalenchik 2 ай бұрын

Really happy to see you back, Stef, and so glad you’re doing well after the surgery. I hope you’ve given Michael the opportunity to say “I told you so” 🤓

@waelbeheiry6056 2 ай бұрын

this is Wael the Pilot from Canada, I cannot wait to watch your first flying video, Welcome back to the fun in the sky.

@noelphilips 2 ай бұрын

Amazing to see you doing so well! Take your time, you'll be back in EYZ in no time. And poweruful, inspirational words at the end as well.

@Lukesaviationaustralia 2 ай бұрын

Hello Noel

@AndyRRR0791 2 ай бұрын

Not gonna lie, Stef but I'm really happy you can make this video. Roll on the AVMED machine!

@juanescobedo5528 2 ай бұрын

Hi Stef, I'm a Canadian Prive Pilot working on my commercial and Instrument rating and have been following you for a few years now. I'm so glad that you are doing well and most important in such a good spirit. Let me tell you that you have been my inspiration in a few things, and one of them is that I have been planning a trip from Vancouver Canada to Australia. Reason being is that my daughter got married in Australia and she has been living there since. We were not able to go to her wedding due to COVID but I have been planning this trip since then. Unfortunately with the Russian Air Space close down it has make it a more difficult but as soon as restrictions are lifted, I will pay you and EYZ a visit. You are truly a tuper. Hang on there and don't lose faith. You will be flying in an instance.

@Nae395 2 ай бұрын

This news has made all of our year Stefan.

@peterblackmore7560 2 ай бұрын

All the best Stefan - lucky for you and family that you listened to your body.

@Flying_Jay 2 ай бұрын

I was wondering how long till we would have an update, great news. Looking forward to sharing the sky with you again soon 🙏

@gmonnig 2 ай бұрын

Stef, wishing you a speedy recovery all the way from the middle of the USA. Glad you're doing well. Cheers!!

@amcconnell6730 2 ай бұрын

Congratulations on successful surgery Stef. My mother has been struggling with a brain aneurysm since Jan first. These things can be so life changing.

@steve_wilson 2 ай бұрын

3:30. Best moment in the video. Patting EYZ. You're you again, Stef. Keep hugging your plane! Going to Washington next week. Completing that bucket list, one item at a time. Not waiting. Thanks - looking forward to more - missed ya, mate!!

@brucejones4383 2 ай бұрын

Good on you Stefan. Expect an even richer life after surgery. I had a triple bypass in 2014, followed by double stents 4 months later. Last year, I was riding my motorbike to work when I hit an oil spot with the bike landing on my leg and breaking both my tibia and fibula. Now I know a lot of people have far worse than me but in both cases, I did what I could to recover and each time I ended a better version of myself. A lot of it is doing what you can and according to advice. At 69, my balance is better than ever and I'm surprised how many people much younger than myself are not as fit as me when required. Do the yards. You'll be great!

@nizamulhaqfani 2 ай бұрын

Well, it’s nice to know you are feeling better. Good to have you back ❤

@rogerbarr2671 2 ай бұрын

I saw EYZ fly over my house on Monday as it was heading to Albury. I thought of you then and hoped everything was going well for you after the surgery. So glad to see this video and you feeling better. Way to go Stef! See you around sometime.

@bruceharper8149 2 ай бұрын

Feeling so emotional and happy for you Stef! You have got this mate.

@brianjosee1 2 ай бұрын

Great to see you back. Here’s a good book to read from Canada. Flying to Extremes: Memories of a Northern Bush Pilot Paperback - Special Edition, June 1 2026 by Dominique Prinet (Author)

@user-sl8yg7uf5s 2 ай бұрын

Glad to see you well again and hope you get back up there as a PIC soon again, which we're all sure you will.

@janwatson7981 2 ай бұрын

Great to see you back and looking well. Take your time,listen to your body and you’ll be back in the air before you know it. Just remember the tortoise beat the hare!

@StefanDrury 2 ай бұрын

Good advice Jan, slow and steady, thanks for the support.

@romaniker 2 ай бұрын

Happy to hear you've already went through surgery and everything is coming out as you planned. Keep your good attitude and soon you'll be flying around the world🌍. Greetings from Mexico 🇲🇽🇦🇺

@ian1972pilot 2 ай бұрын

VFR pilot/IFR candidate; this is wonderful that you are up and working your plan to green light your aviation adventures again. This speaks to me and I've noted the advice of taking care of my health like an engine and I agree that the time is nigh to fulfill my aviating adventure (I'm almost 52). I tend to stick closer to home and do milk run flights--time to spread my wings. I look forward to seeing follow ons to your proficiency plans and your journey. Love your story telling, it is always relatable, and it is always uplifting to be around the things you love to do. Even when you can't do it exactly the way you used to for bit. My home (non loggable type) simulator helped me a ton during COVID. Building it little at a time for more and more realism.

@MonishJohnson 2 ай бұрын

Good to have you back Stefan. Looking forward for the future world tour on EYZ.

@wayneobrien3332 2 ай бұрын

Keep improving. No doubt there will be steps backwards, know that it's ok. You'll get there. Thanks for being brave and vulnerable to be able to share what is otherwise a deeply personal experience.

@chadpm11 2 ай бұрын

Awesome, nice to know the surgery went well. Thanks for keeping everyone updated and talking about it. The talking about it may save another person's life.

@nzcirruspilot 2 ай бұрын

Very very happy to hear everything went well with the surgery and you're on a path to fly again as PIC. And thank you for your parting advice, very wise words!

@stevenm1054 2 ай бұрын

Stef great news. Be prepared for more hurdles than you think from CASA. Then look forward to the 30 odd more years of flying ahead of you. Take care my online friend.

@davemciver6577 2 ай бұрын

Fantastic to see your enthusiastic face again Stefan on the other side of surgery. Go well, take care and look forward to more of your flying content when you're fully operational.

@jdennisjdennis 2 ай бұрын

So glad to hear the surgery went well Stef! It’s good to see you back at the airport with a smile on your face 😊

@jamesandrews8648 2 ай бұрын

...oh hello how lovely to see and hear from you ! - best wishes and looking forward with you ..👏👏👏

@jc.f111 2 ай бұрын

"Nothing in life is permanent" Absolutely love it. It goes both ways, for the good and the bad things. I understand what you've been through, its good to see you back!

@MisterTechnologic 2 ай бұрын

I had no idea! I’m so glad you’re doing well. I hope you’re back in the air soon!

@Gui_G 2 ай бұрын

Way to go Stefan! We are all happy for you!

@intimkalo 2 ай бұрын

This is the healthy mindset of a strong man! I hope you will overcome all the following challenges! Fly safe and keep doing what you believe needs to be done, thank you!

@amfwelsh 2 ай бұрын

So happy your doing great. You will be back in the air in no time and I look forward to that

@ollydearden 2 ай бұрын

Look after yourself Stefan. Looking great. Really enjoy your videos.

@duncanwalker 2 ай бұрын

Great to see you post surgery and telling us your story. I am a cardiac survivor and agree with you, do it now! Keep getting better and more videos, please.

@bigfelladave7897 2 ай бұрын

So good to hear all went well, keep fighting and you will be back up in the air in no time

@fredflintstome6532 2 ай бұрын

Wonderful wonderful news Stefan. Best of luck for a speedy recovery

@baron1405 2 ай бұрын

I will say to you what my instructor wrote on my shirt after I solo'd 40+ years ago: FANTASTIC!

@JayA330 2 ай бұрын

Hope you have a smooth recovery and journey to flying again. Can't wait for you to join us in the skies once more!

@user-tf9yd8xu8f 2 ай бұрын

So glad you're doing ok Stefan and just keep plodding. You'll be right. Looking forward to your future videos.

@dabe1971 2 ай бұрын

Life can change in a second. I had my own little scare in January after suffering a heart attack - that I didn't know I was having - at the grand old age of 52. After my stent I'm all good (Thank you NHS) but you certainly gain a new perspective on life. Good to see your smile back on YT. Best wishes from the UK.

@dereksanders7905 2 ай бұрын

Great to see you back to the Stef we all love and care about!

@caseylwr 2 ай бұрын

Great to see you are doing well. Good to see you back. Look after yourself .

@daveyp76 2 ай бұрын

G’day Stefan, glad you’re back mate. Hope all is well 🫡

@Tianton1 2 ай бұрын

It's utterly true you never know whats around the corner. My wife went in to give birth to our daughter two days ago and it ended up in an emergency C section which ended up in a severed artery which they couldn't clamp. She basically nearly died while I held my 3 minute old daughter in the theatre and I was a complete mess standing there feeling hopeless. My 15 years aviation threat and and error management kicked in. I handed my girl to a midwife, I went to my wife and held her hand, I saw the consultant was swamped so I just shouted out that she needed a rapid blood transfusion. This kick started an array of events as the startled doctor echoed my instruction. She told me after that she was so focused on fixing the artery that she lost track of the situation and my input was vital even though I've zero medical education. Goes to show what our industry instills in us. My training kicked in and I went from startled to solution focused

@AndrewMorison_morrie 2 ай бұрын

Awesome to see you being your best you Stef.. Look forward to seeing you in the skies soon..

@jasongarufi8187 2 ай бұрын

Thanks for the update Stefan.

@Planekeen 2 ай бұрын

Hope all goes smoothly for you in the future I lost my wife suddenly 3 years ago and it has taken a long time to get myself together Good luck for the future

@_TheRock 2 ай бұрын

So happy to see your happy face again here on KZfaq! Looks like you’ve been in safe hands. Welcome back and looking forward to many more future aviation adventures. Big hugs to you and your loved ones.

@maxi2364 2 ай бұрын

Wow, so great to see you looking and sounding so well Steph. Go easy and take your time to recover. 👍

@FrancoVettor 2 ай бұрын

Good to see you back in the videos. The best of wishes for complete and quick recovery.

@therealdavidnesbitt 2 ай бұрын

Great to have you back Stefan, take care of yourself.

@colorvitamin 2 ай бұрын

You just gained a sub! Glad you’re okay.

@222amg 2 ай бұрын

I’m so happy surgery went well and thanks for sharing your news! We are all behind you wishing you well!

@MaverickAussie 2 ай бұрын

I'm so happy to see you're through the other side of your ordeal. I'm sure it's been difficult for you in many ways, and we're all wishing you the very best that you can one day return to EYZ. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with us.