the medical side
Posted by Natasha Watt on Jun 28, 2011
A little over a week ago Aimee and Michi noticed that Stella was having some balance issues and some difficulty walking. Last week they followed up with two doctors, and an ear infection was suspected. On Friday June 24th Michi and Aimee took Stella in to Sick Children’s Hospital because of its excellent diagnostic care. In the early hours of Saturday they got the devastating news that it was a brain tumor. A few hours later, they learned it was fatal.
Stella was diagnosed with brainstem glioma. This is an aggressive tumor that has wrapped around her brainstem. Stella’s parents and family have had numerous consultations with some of the best doctors in the world about Stella’s health and care. The tumor is inoperable, and also is widely regarded as being untreatable through chemotherapy or radiation. Such methods will most likely only prolong her life for a short time but will have a negative impact on the quality of life. Above all else Aimee and Michi are dedicated to the quality of Stella’s life and so have chosen not to pursue any harsh and largely ineffective treatments.
Two of the things that have presented differently are firstly, Stella’s young age. Most children with this tumor do not present symptoms till they are five or six, whereas Stella has just turned two. Secondly, there is usually a great deal of vomiting as a symptom, but Stella has not displayed that either. Because of this several departments are meeting to discuss Stella’s case and on Monday will meet with Michi and Aimee to talk to them about their findings and whether there or not they feel the tumor should be biopsied. With the information that is presented Stella’s mommies will weigh their options and decide what is in her best interests.
Till Monday July 4th there will be no new medical information.
Stella was happily released from the hospital on Monday. Aimee and Michi have both taken leaves from their jobs and are home to enjoy their daughter. The massive outpouring of love they have received from so many friends and family has also tremendously touched them. And they are thankful to everyone for their support at this difficult time.
Comments (33)
Meighan:
May 11, 2013 at 03:24 AM
I have followed Stella's story for awhile. You mentioned she giggled in her sleep, and that was the only early symptom. How often did you notice this? My son giggles in his sleep often enough that I want to take him to the dr, juston this, but I've not read that anywhere else.
Thanks, Meighan
Madelaine Gallinger:
Oct 26, 2012 at 05:06 PM
Aimie & Michi, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you both at this most difficult time of your lives. How fortunate Stella was to have 2 mommies who loved her so very much! Throughout my years I have seen far too many children neglected and abused either by one parent or the other and in some cases ...both. Stella was a an angel sent to you both because God knew you deserved this special child and that you would love her beyond any mother's love imaginable.
You have so many beautiful pictures and video's of Stella! In spite of this devastating disease, she was a very happy little girl who only knew how to show love. A nurse once told me (referring to my son) a child is like an empty tin can, they are what YOU put into them. I always remembered those words when I was raising my two children now 45 and 43. It is obvious that so much love was in Stella. God Bless you Aimie and Michi xo
Patricia Sewell:
Jul 23, 2012 at 05:51 PM
This would be my mother's 96 birthday which caused me to think of Stella's two mothers. My mom was a early feminist who left a bad marriage and her children to become fully herself. At first she was highly suicidal and depressed but eventually she emerged like a butterfly to become fully human and alive. I am asking my mom to watch over Stella's two Mommies in hope that they two can see their ways through all this awful pain, so that they can eventually heal and grow again in the way that only is possible for those who have walked though the worse and emerged as angels and butterflies. May the higher powers hold you all in his/her hands. pat
Andrea :
Aug 30, 2011 at 02:11 PM
Just someone who is a friend of a friend. I was so touched by you and your amazing little Stella. I will keep loving thoughts this darling angel in my heart.
Ordinary Girl:
Aug 16, 2011 at 03:10 PM
I'm a new reader to your blog, having just found you recently through LFCA. I keep writing this again and again because I just don't feel like I have the right words to share with you. I felt compelled to tell you that your story has changed the way I view the world though and that your family is in my thoughts and prayers daily.
Natelle :
Aug 05, 2011 at 10:04 PM
Aimee, I just am at a loss for words. You have three strong ladies in your family. The mommies and Stella are in my prayers...
Fiona D'Cunha & family:
Aug 04, 2011 at 08:46 AM
My family and I send little Stella and her moms a whole heap of positive thoughts, love, hugs, blessings and prayers...
monica:
Aug 03, 2011 at 10:17 PM
Stella will be in my prayers tonight. God Bless this little child.
Natalie Leahy:
Aug 03, 2011 at 05:08 PM
I have never met you but saw this story posted on Tammy's FB. I have 3 young children of my own & my heart goes out to you. I will say a prayer for little Stella.
Dave and Marie Simms:
Jul 26, 2011 at 08:21 PM
We are very sorry to hear about Stella's illness. We will never forget how cute and well behaved she was when we met you folks in Yorkville.
Please let us know if there is any help we can offer.
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