My brother is about to undergo surgery to get a thumb-sized lump removed from the area that collects spinal fluid

Stay optimistic, modern medicine is an amazing thing. Earlier this year I should have died, I would have ten years ago, but they can cure anything these days. And look on the bright side: hot nurses, time off work, and the highest quality drugs he's ever had. So be there for him, and be supportive, because that might convince him to share.