Alice’s Story

Site created on October 21, 2019


Alice Update, November 20, 2021-


Unfortunately, Alice's brain tumor has returned.  Luckily, we have been closely monitoring this for the last couple of years.  It was decided that a second surgery is the best move, and that is schedule for Tuesday morning, November 23rd.  We appreciate all prayers, good vibes, etc. that morning.  


We will do our best to update this website as we help Alice through her recovery.  


***************************************************************************************************************************************************************************After several days of complaints about headaches, Alice was diagnosed on October 15th with a brain tumor.  She had a drain put into her brain on Wednesday, October 16th.  Our hope was that this would relieve some of the extreme pressure that was building in her brain, as her tumor blocked drainage out of her head.  On October 17th, she awoke in severe pain.  She spent the day cycling through horrible head pain, vomiting, and sleeping.  That night, Alice became unresponsive, and the decision was made to do emergency surgery.  At 8:30, she was wheeled away, and her surgery concluded about 1:00 a.m. Friday morning.


The MRI after the surgery was promising.  She continues to be in a lot of pain and hasn't yet opened her eyes.  She responds to our questions, but her mind is elsewhere and she is very uncomfortable.


We are at Children's Hospital in Minneapolis.  Our neurosurgeon, Dr. McCue, is fantastic.  We are grateful for the amazing staff here.


This week our hope is to find out the results of the biopsy.  First impressions are that this is not a benign tumor.  So, we will be coming up with a treatment plan once we know exactly what we are dealing with.

Newest Update

October 10, 2023

Journal entry by Claiborne Day —

Alice had her stitches removed yesterday.  There were plenty, and she was a real trouper.  🥳.  

We met with her neurosurgeon,  a member of his team, and our oncologist.  We discussed Alice's progress, which has been tremendous.  We also talked about a plan for the remaining tumor.  It seems the best path will be radiation, though that won't be for a couple months or so.

Alice is anxious to get back to her regular life.  She has been able to attend a few afternoon classes, which I think has really lifted her spirits and motivated her.    Her friends were there to greet her on her first day back, and she brought home a gift basket filled with treasures.  I know that made her feel really special! 🥰

I attached a picture from our time at Children's Hospital yesterday (taken before she had a quick CT scan).  Alice has felt more private about this surgery, but she did allow this one playful picture to be shared. 

With the removal of her stitches, I feel like we are wrapping up the big events connected to this surgery.  We really appreciate the support we have received these last few weeks.  Thank you!!!!! 

 

Read More of the journal titled "October 10, 2023"
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