Emily Aldrich Tropp

As many of you know, Emily has been diagnosed with cancer. There is a lot to process and explain, so we are using Caring Bridge as a way for us to communicate updates about her progress and treatment. It’s also another platform for family and friends to send her love, positive vibes, and prayers. As I write this on Dec. 27, it’s all still very difficult to wrap my head around and accept. This past week has been overwhelming as we’ve learned more and more about the extent of her diagnosis. In short, here is what we know: For the past months, Emily had been experiencing increased lower abdominal discomfort and pain. Following ultrasounds, CT scans, and some extensive blood work, results have pointed to what doctors believe to be ovarian cancer that has metastasized to other organs. Initial feedback from doctors made us fear the worse, but after we (along with her sisters Sarah and Andy, brother Mitch, mother Mary,  and best friend Meghan) met with Emily’s care team at UW Carbone Cancer Center in Madison on Dec. 26, we received some encouraging news from her lead doctor, Dr. Ahmed Al-Niaimi. He believes with confidence that Emily’s cancer is treatable with chemotherapy and surgery.  Emily is in the best possible hands. The UW Carbone staff is elite. As scary and unexpected as this is, Emily, Grace, Ethan, and myself are beyond blessed to have such an amazing and extensive support system of family, friends, and doctors behind her. The outpouring of positivity, inspiration, and love has been uplifting. We will fight this with everything we can, and your motivation only strengthens our foundation of optimism. There is a long road to recovery ahead, but that journey is filled with hope. Emily is strong and we are determined. We will continue to provide updates as they come in. We love you all. Thank you. – Gareth