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)
Jenny Crossin:
Jul 05, 2011 at 10:52 PM
Aimee I miss you and love you... I'm praying for Stella and all of you every day.. pls. send my love to Ange, I'm sure she's the best auntie ever.
Stella is the luckiest girl in the world to have you for her mom.
Stay strong Ames... I'm praying for a miracle and sending you and Michi strength every day.
big hugs,
Jenny
Gary Diggins:
Jul 05, 2011 at 11:59 AM
Each day I spend time offering loving support to a small circle of individuals handling difficult circumstances. Deborah Miller told me about Stella and so I will join others in sending you all compassion, kindness, and the blessing of Love.
vanessa and Sebastien Phillips:
Jun 30, 2011 at 10:38 PM
We are thinking of you all . Glad to hear Stella is out of the hospital.. Sending all the love in the work to the three of you!
Leigh Ford:
Jun 30, 2011 at 10:02 PM
My thoughts, love and prayers are with you all!!
Ashlea:
Jun 30, 2011 at 10:02 PM
All my love to Stella and her Mommies!
June:
Jun 30, 2011 at 08:30 PM
I am so sorry to hear this. I'm sending thoughts of strength and love to the whole family.
Sarah:
Jun 30, 2011 at 07:49 PM
We are thinking of you often and sending much love!
althea di gregorio:
Jun 30, 2011 at 06:09 PM
i am praying, and praying more...i love you and you are all in my thoughts
Pat Sewell:
Jun 30, 2011 at 05:56 PM
I will keep this little wonder of a child in my heart and prayers. Pat
(Roger Plageman's sister)
The Dininio Family:
Jun 30, 2011 at 05:24 PM
Thoughts and prayers are with you all and your families during this difficult time. Sending positive vibes and big hugs from the Dininios.
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