Tuesday, October 10, 2017- Steph called her doctor's office and asked for an appointment; she was given an appointment that day for evaluation of a chronic dry cough since May. A chest x-ray was performed and Steph resumed school that afternoon. Around 5:00 pm Cindy received a call from the doctor's office telling them to head to the ER immediately due to an abnormal image. The drive to the ER was full of questions and potential worries. After several images (repeat chest x-ray and chest CT scan) and blood tests in the ER, the only conclusion is, "a large mass in the right anterior mediastinum with pressure on the superior vena cava and right bronchial tree." Basically, the main vein that drains the upper chest, arms, and head/neck is being constricted along with the right bronchi that inflates the right lung. The mass is on the outside of the lung and is placing significant pressure on the right top of the lung. Steph was transferred to the pediatric oncology/hematology floor around 3:30 am on October 11 and is being cared for by several treatment teams: pediatric medicine physicians, pediatric surgery, and pediatric oncology. Steph and family are asking for prayers as many questions are unanswered.
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