When I was 2 years old, I was very sick and they found out I had an inoperable brain tumor. I went through three tough years of treatment and, finally, got the tumor to stop growing. I have enjoyed over five years off treatment!
But, unfortunately, the effects of my tumor and treatment continue to impact my life. Throughout the fall, I had increasing pressure and dizziness in my head. We weren't sure what was going on and it confused the doctors too. Finally, I couldn't lift my head without unbearable pain. The doctors ran some tests and still had no answers. They decided I needed a brain surgery to explore my shunt, the drain that keeps the fluid moving in my brain. Sure enough - the tubing had become clogged over the 8 years in had been doing its work and needed to be replaced.
The surgery was scheduled for my Dad's 50th birthday, December 20. This should've been an easy surgery and I was supposed to go home the next day. But, as with so many things in this journey, there was an unpredicted and very rare complication. When the doctor removed the clogged tube, it caused bleeding in my brain. I had to have another emergency surgery to place a second external drain so the blood could get out. I had to sit still in my hospital bed for TWO WEEKS and I felt miserable. I was also very sad to miss Christmas and all our family traditions. Finally on December 30, they were able to complete the surgery and I returned home in time for NYE.
I am grateful to be feeling much better now and hope to not have to stay in the hospital again any time soon!
During my years at the hospital, I made many friends. Many of them have not been as lucky as me. I have had to say goodbye to many of them, as they passed away. I know I am lucky that my treatment worked. I am volunteering again this year and making bracelets to raise money and get more medicines so all the kids who have cancer can be lucky like me.
Thank you for all your support and love. Go, Team CKCKC!
