Kristi’s Story

Site created on September 24, 2023

On Tuesday September 19th, 2023, Kristi was admitted to the ICU at El Camino Hospital Los Gatos after experiencing deteriorating functionality of her right foot. Upon receiving a brain CT and MRI, it was discovered that she had several lesions on her brain, which were most likely the cause of her motor skill issues. An additional scan of her chest, abdomen and pelvis revealed a number of other lesions in her lung, liver, and spleen.  The doctors conducted a biopsy of the lesion on her liver on Friday September 22nd because it was the easiest point to access. Based on the pathology of that biopsy, she has been diagnosed with metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma.

The doctors have put her on steroids to try to reduce the swelling in her brain. She completed five rounds of radiation surgery (targeted radiation) to the most risky lesion in her brain. She completed her first round of chemotherapy the week of October 16th.

Obviously, this is a tremendous shock for all of us. Up until her foot stopped working properly, she didn't have noticeable symptoms.  We want to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support. Kristi has every intention of being the outlier case on this journey!

We definitely want to take you up on offers of help and support as we figure out what comes next. A few places that are helpful:

- As much as she'd love to see you, please don't come by the house without arranging a visit with Larry and Kristi first. 
- Text messages are the best way to get ahold of Kristi. She loves connecting with people but needs to keep her phone open because we're fielding calls from her medical team. If you don't hear back from her, please don't be offended. Just know she's getting your messages of love and support.

Newest Update

April 9, 2024

Journal entry by Kristi Hernandez —

Hi all - I've now been home for 2 weeks.  It's been a joy to be here, unburying my desk and even cooking dinner (with Larry's help chopping).  The scans and increased motor activity are all positive.  There are a few side effects that we are dealing with, but most of the doctors have smiles on their faces.

Leslie is celebrating a milestone birthday this year.  Jon and Lincoln hosted a wonderful party on Saturday night.  I really enjoyed catching up with her friends from middle school and Pacific Grove.  Now that I'm home, I can go down to PG and spend the night.  (There are rules and rules and rules about what can happen when you are staying in a "skilled nursing facility".  Some involve no overnight departures from the SNF.  Irritating at best....)

My next set of scans are mid-May.  So until then, we should assume that no news is good news.  

Hugs and many thanks,

Kristi

Read More of the journal titled "April 9, 2024"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Kristi Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Kristi's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for Kristi

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top