This morning we met with medical personnel regarding the outcome of Sarah's brain biopsy. Unfortunately, the news was not good. Sarah's brain tumor is cancerous (or malignant) and is officially called an "Anaplastic Astrocytoma". The type and location (thalamus region) of this tumor are very rare, especially for a child of Sarah's age. Therefore, it has no certain cures.Doctors have counseled us that the best treatment options (chemotherapy and radiation) present a very low probability of eliminating this tumor. Because of Sarah's age, treatment would likely start with chemotherapy followed by radiation in approximately six months. Side effects of such treatment could include learning disabilities, lower IQ, and other cognitive effects. If the tumor reoccurred after radiation treatments, then Sarah would have no chance of recovery.
Based on the characteristics of the tumor and side effects of cancer treatments, doctors also mentioned that we may consider not going through any treatment at all. This option would boil down to a decision on Sarah's quality of life. Although Sarah would only have six months to live, her quality of life would be much higher during that time.
We will be discussing these treatment options more over the coming days. As you can imagine, these decisions are extremely difficult and continue to be a matter of prayer. In the end, we know that the path chosen will be the best for Sarah.
Thank you for your continued prayers and words of support.
6 comments:
Brian and Christine...
We are so saddened to hear of sweet little Sarah's diagnosis. Our hearts broke when we heard of the news. Both Bryan and I can, somewhat, sympathize with the very difficult decisions you are facing. We made many decisions that parents should never have to make before our sweet Kate passed away. We want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you guys!
Love,
Bryan & Marcae Rosenvall
Your family is in our prayers.
Brian and Christine, I am so sorry to hear about Sarah's condition. I know I have only met her once at Greg's Wedding, but she was such a sweet little cutie pie. Of course I will pray for your family, but if there is anything that I can do for you please don't hesitate to call or email me. I know that I am all the way in Boston, but I know some amazing sugens here that might be able to help. I pray that God's love and peace surrounds you and your family through this experience. We love you! Love, Deborah, Jonathan, Isaac and Owen
I am so sorry. Sarah and your family have been in my prayers since I found out about what is going on. I am so sad about all of this and I wish there was something I could do to help. I will continue to keep her (and all of you too!) in my prayers and please let me know if there is ANYTHING at all that I can do.
Stephanie Crosby
(I got your link off of Julianne's blog.)
Christine,
I am married to Brian's cousin, Jon. Jon's mom (Rita's sister) told us about Sarah's diagnosis and I just wanted you to know that there are many prayers being offered on your behalf.
Although we don't know you personally, our hearts are breaking for you. Your family has been in our thoughts and prayers since we heard the news Thursday, and we will continue to pray for comfort, peace, and clarity as you face these difficult weeks ahead.
We are in the Wells Branch ward now and tonight while visiting teaching I found out about Sarah. I am so sorry. I am trying to find an email address for you to send a more personal note. For now please now that your family is so loved here in Pflugerville. We are praying for you all.
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