One of a series. 

Here may be the main reason that Scott Wyant has appeared uncommonly optimistic since undergoing brain surgery:

The Planning Commissioner and his wife, Leslie Spanier-Wyant, are a curious and sophisticated couple. They mean to plumb and to understand every nuanced shadow and corner of Mr. Wyant’s health crisis.

“The doctors (at UCLA) are astonishingly good at communication,” said Mr. Wyant, who is participating in two clinical trials.

“They know we want to know stuff. And they are happy to talk to us about it.

“I also want to know more about the data program.”

Meantime, Mr. Wyant never strays far from a fun moment.

He has had two “really cool” masks made to help him ride through the present ordeal of undergoing radiation treatments.

Southern Californians may be familiar with the theatrical luche libre (fight free) masks worn by colorfulMexican professional wrestlers.”

On that order.

“I have been looking for an appropriate name to put on my masks,” Mr. Wyant said. “One of my nieces is an extraordinarily gifted graphic artist in the Napa Valley, where we are going this weekend. I am hoping that she will come up with an appropriate decoration for my masks.”

The 40-year surfing veteran has solved the naming issue.

“My daughter (Molly) and I have come up with this: H2ombre since I spend so much time in the ocean (as an almost daily surfer).”

After Mr. Wyant’s first radiation treatments, their plan is to fly to Sacramento on Friday, and then drive over to the Napa Valley for their annual weekend reunion with pals from days of yore.