Chuck and Lyndy Riley


In 2003, I was diagnosed as having an arachnoid cyst in my right frontal and parietal brain lobes.  The cyst was located by MRI and CT scans performed to identify a cause for memory loss and forgetfulness I was experiencing.  The cyst was 4 x 5 cm. upon initial diagnosis.  From 2003 to 2006 the only other symptom I experienced was frequent falls--approximately 4 to 6 falls in about a 6 month time span.   I even injured my back and had to go for therapy.  In May of 2006, an MRI showed enlargement of the cyst to 5.1 x 5.0 x 3.9 cm.   My balance problems got worse from that point.  Also, by that time,  I was having steadily worsening speech problems and headaches.  By the time of my surgery, I could hardly walk or talk and my head hurt all the time.

In November of 2006, Lyndy and I met Dr. Paul Francel.  Dr. Francel and his staff exhibited the confidence of true professionals.  Dr. Francel’s PA, Tami Myers explained the nature of an arachnoid cyst and normal brain functioning very clearly and in layman’s terms.  Treatment options were discussed.  Dr. Francel recommended that I proceed as soon as possible with a cysto-peritoneal shunt placement, in order to resolve some of the worsening,  troubling difficulties I was now experiencing.

On December 6th, I underwent cysto-peritoneal shunt placement.  The pressure was so great in the cyst that it squirted clear up to the ceiling when Dr. Francel entered it.  He knew immediately that relieving all that pressure was really going to be helpful.  The surgery and post operative recovery were without incident.  And just as Dr. Francel had told me, I was out of the hospital that afternoon.  The small horseshoe shaped incision healed without any problems.   Prior to my surgery, I thought that I might have to go on disability.  Not so.  I am now back to work full time and doing very well.  We are so thankful to Dr. Francel and his staff for all they did for me.

To learn more about Arachnoid Cysts click here to go to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).


On October 31, 2006 while my I was driving home from work, I prayed that God would lead us in the right direction for my husband's medical needs.  Upon arriving home, a note lay on the kitchen counter that had Dr. Francel's name and phone number on it that was left by one of our relatives.  After searching the Internet for information on Dr. Francel, I  found the Brainwavz website.

The first link I clicked on was My Personal Thoughts about Dr. Paul Francel.  It quoted Psalms 121:1-2.  "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills.  From whence cometh my help?  My help cometh from the Lord, who made heaven and earth."   It was so moving and spoke directly to my heart, as if God was reminding me that He is the one to rely upon in our darkest hours.

After reading the information on the website, I concluded that God had a plan for our future and it included Dr. Francel.

I think Chuck's favorite hymn pretty much sums up his attitude on life.  It says "Be not dismayed whater betide, God will take care of you..."

Brainwavz Homepage -
Inspirational stories about Arnold and Nancy Allen and friends.
 Information about Dr. Paul C. Francel