When 57-year-old Mildura farmer Sogna first noticed soreness in her eyes, she never imagined it would lead to the discovery of a brain tumour.
Following the discovery that Sogna’s left pupil was larger than her right, further investigation was recommended.
An MRI scan was arranged, but after an initial mix-up with the imaging process, Sogna underwent a second scan that revealed the tumour.
“It was very scary,” Sogna recalls.
“When I had the MRI done, they sent me a text with the images before I had the official report. I’m no doctor, but I thought I could see a dark spot. I called my doctor straight away the next morning.”
Fortunately, further assessment confirmed the tumour was a benign meningioma. While relieved it was not cancerous, Sogna still faced uncertainty as doctors closely monitored the growth.
Six months later, follow-up scans showed the tumour had increased slightly in size.
Because the growth remained minimal, surgery was not considered the best option. Instead, Sogna was referred to Icon Cancer Centre radiation oncologist, Associate Professor Sasha Senthi to discuss treatment with CyberKnife®, a highly precise form of stereotactic radiosurgery.
“I wanted the best treatment available,” says Sogna.
“I felt really confident about CyberKnife®. It’s new, cutting-edge technology and it doesn’t get more precise.”
In February 2026, Sogna underwent three CyberKnife® treatment sessions over the course of a single week.
“I had treatment on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Each appointment was only about 20 minutes,” says Sogna.
“The appointments were so quick – it was amazing. I’d have treatment and then go shopping straight afterwards.”
Aside from some tiredness after her second and third sessions, Sogna experienced very few side effects.
“A few weeks afterwards I felt a bit tired and could taste something funny in my mouth, but that was it. I’ve had no ongoing side effects.”
One unexpected highlight of treatment was the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the team at 5D Clinics – Melbourne.
“The staff were wonderful,” says Sogna.
“They were always smiling and laughing and made everything so easy. They were so helpful.”
Patients undergoing CyberKnife® treatment can choose music to listen to during their sessions, and Sogna selected songs from her favourite Korean K-pop band, BTS.
“It made the experience more comfortable and even a bit of fun,” says Sogna.
Today, Sogna is back enjoying life on the family farm near Mildura, where she and her family grow grapes and avocados. With three sons, and 10 grandchildren, she is focused on enjoying every moment.
Reflecting on her diagnosis, Sogna admits she experienced mixed emotions after learning her tumour was benign.
“After being told it wasn’t cancerous, I almost felt like a fraud,” says Sogna.
“I know people who have cancer and are going through much worse than I did. They were asking if I was okay, and I felt embarrassed because I knew they were facing much bigger challenges.”
While the experience was confronting, it has reinforced the importance of seeking answers when something doesn’t feel right and exploring all available treatment options.
Looking back, Sogna has no hesitation in recommending CyberKnife® treatment to others facing a similar diagnosis.
“The whole procedure was excellent,” says Sogna.
“If I ever had to do it again, I’d have no hesitation at all.”
