Klauk facing up to three brain surgeries to stop seizures

• By Ryan Ballengee
• Apr 13, 2012 1:57 PM ET

In an effort to stop the cause of epileptic seizures impacting him since 2006, PGA and Nationwide Tour player Jeff Klauk will undergo up to three brain surgeries at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, according to the Florida Times-Union.

The initial surgery is set for April 20 and will be an exploratory procedure aiming to identify the portion of the brain causing the seizures. At least one surgery, and as many as three, will be required to remove the affecting brain tissue. The amount of brain tissue to be removed is approximately 1 inch by 2 inches, and a quarter-inch deep on the right side of his brain.

"It's going to be a challenge for my family," Klauk said Friday. "More so for them than me because I'm anxious to get this started and finally put an end to the seizures."

Klauk has treated the seizures through medication to this point but the side effects, including dizziness and tremors, are too much.

Klauk has made the cut in 15 of 28 starts between the PGA and Nationwide Tour in 2010 and '11. He has not played this year on either tour. In addition to limiting his play, he has not driven a car for the last 18 months in fear of having a seizure while driving.

If all goes well, Klauk will be able to play again by the end of the Nationwide Tour season.