Childhood Cancer

Olivia was a typical, happy, healthy 3-year-old little girl, but that all changed on November 28, 2008.  Olivia was coming down with the symptoms of what seemed to be a cold.  She was vomiting, listless and just a little clumsy. 

During what was supposed to be a quick trip to AI duPont Children’s Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware for IV fluids, things went from normal to serious.  That evening, Olivia was diagnosed with a brain tumor and admitted to the ICU.  The following day she was diagnosed with hydrocephalus and needed a temporary shunt. 

On December 1, the tumor was removed, and shortly after, we were given the diagnosis we had dreaded - medulloblastoma.  Due to the lack of research, we had to weigh our treatment options...quality vs. quantity of life.  While we were trying to decide on a path, Olivia was suffering from posterior fossa syndrome. 

On December 22, Olivia started her first round of chemotherapy prior to us moving to Boston for proton radiation at MassGeneral Hospital. Thus began what seemed to be endless rounds of radiation, physical therapy, and chemotherapy.

She completed her 10th round of chemotherapy in March 2010.  She is currently dealing with some late effects related treatment, but her scans have shown no evidence of disease. Olivia is now 15 years old and attends Red Lion Christian Academy where she plays field hockey and soccer. She is a very strong and brave little girl who continues to defy the odds.