Carly has been feeling better since her shunt surgery and is back at school again. She has also been smiling a lot more since the surgery and she loves playing with her stuffed animal friends. This we are very thankful for, but we also got some news today which is not as good. Carly’s most recent MRI that was taken last week shows what the team at UCSF believes to be recurrent tumor. They had noticed an area that had them concerned three months ago, but Dr. Gupta was hopeful that it was just scar tissue. The area grew in every dimension in the most recent scan which is indicative of tumor and not scar tissue. The concerning area is pretty small now, about the size of a lima bean, but it has been growing slowly for several months.
There are a few options for treatment that range from radiation therapy, surgery or some type of chemotherapy. Each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses which we will be reviewing with a range of specialists over the next few weeks. We will also get second opinions from some of the most respected centers around the US to ensure that all of the best minds are thinking of Carly. We keep hoping that this area will just shrink away on its own, but we also have to be prepared for whatever Carly needs. I know she is in all of your thoughts and prayers, and she can use the extra strength and healing now as much as ever.
Love, Brad
34 comments:
Wow, that is unexpected and difficult news. I'm hopeful the best minds come together to care for one amazing, strong little girl. We wish you the best. - Shanan and Josie
We're sending love to all of you. I'm sure its tough to get this news - but it sounds, as always, as if you have the right perspective, and are thinking positive thoughts : ) You're all in our thoughts.
Love,
The Horns
I'm continuing to keep sweet Carly in my prayers. Sending you guys love. These are uncharted waters, but there is a host of hearts to back you guys up.
We are hoping this lima bean shrinks away on it's own as well. Whatever treatment is ahead, team Carly will always be here to support and love you. Sending over lots of kisses to an incredible little girl.
Karen & Kevin
xo
I'm thinking healthy thoughts of a strong and vibrant Carly, knowing that she, and you, can tackle this challenge with Team Carly by your side.
Thrilled to hear that Carly is happy and enjoying school. Brings a much needed smile to my face tonight. xo
Hey B & C,
I know you are working with the best doctors and I am glad to read you will be getting a second opinion. Sending lots and love and strength to all three of you.
Love ya - The Shumans
oh guys, i am so sad to hear this news. my thoughts are with you and i've been thinking of you so much lately. sending some love and strength and huge hugs to get you through this. glad to hear she is enjoying school & her animals! so cute!
we love you -
Lani & Chris
Team carly reporting for duty. We will be here to support lil c and you both every step of the way. Sending lots of love.
we are sending love and prayers and strength and whatever else you may need. i'm glad Carly will have the best minds in the field thinking hard about how to help her. we are envisioning a shrinking lima bean and a healthy Carly. Love you guys and your amazing little angel!,
sheila and keith
As always, thinking about you in these difficult times.... Sweet little Carly.. Lots of love, Cécile
You know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers every day. Dennis and Kathy
What a great picture of Carly!!! Seeing her smiling so big in the picture just warms my heart. Sounds like Carly has yet another hurdle to go over soon. No doubt you, Christa, and Carly have the courage and strength to clear the obstacle. Praying for you all!!
Rob
Focusing on this cute picture of Carly as I envision her brain tumor free. Down with the lima bean! Sending so much love and strength your way as you three overcome this next hurdle. ((HUGS))
I'm thinking of you three, and keeping you in my prayers. Much love to you.
Wolfgang Norton
Carly is the strongest little girl we know! We continue to send you all lots of love!
This lima bean doesn't stand a chance! Stay strong, and lots of love from Seattle!
robin
We're sending lots of love and good vibes your way
- the McBrayers
We are sending our love to you guys...please give Carly a big hug for us.
Love,
Chris, Piper and Paige
positive thoughts going out to you 3. carly you are such a tough little cookie! i know you can show this lima bean tumor who is boss! love you guys!
sarah & matt
Sending lots of love and light little c's way. hoping that some abc disco will help operation shrink lima bean too. xoxo michelle
sending lots of love and kisses to you three. your strength continues to amaze us all. team carly is here to kick the lima bean to the curb!
kate and kaveh
Thinking psoitive thoguths for Carly. Lots of love to all of you.
Oh boy. I am sure that little lump will be no match for Carly, especially when she has the two of you, all of us, and now a whole class full of friends cheering her on. Sending lots of love your way and hoping for some good news soon - Jen
Sending lots & lots of love to Carly, and you guys too!!!
Love, Jane, Chuck & Sammy
I'm so sad to hear this news. But, I'm confident you & Christa will thoroughly research your options and make the best decision for Carly. Your strength and perseverance are inspiring!
Love, Laurel
Sending all our love to sweet little Carly. Praying for shrinkage of that Lima bean. You are all in my thoughts. Love, Julia and Mark
Love the picture (it looks like Carly is using both hands), hate the news.
You're always in my thoughts and know that I'm here if I can be of help.
Jeri
Sending you extra positivity and healing energy. Love, Tooley
Team Carly is in full force! Sending you vibes of health and wisdom for the next step.
love,
Lance and Mark
So sad to hear this news. Will send prayers your way.
Tammy
I continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. You are such wonderful parents for Carly.
she is lucky that you stay strong, positive, and continue to monitor all things for her. I wish all children could have advocates like you. Positive energy is being sent your way.
Kay Springer
Where's the Lemur? That is one sneaky stuffed animal. Waiting to pounce and induce more laughs! I love seeing Carly feel better and hope the best for her ongoing treatment.....Love, Kellie
She is Carly Braveheart. She is strong, she endures and moves forward. She inspires all of us and brings out the best in everyone who knows her or knows of her. She is her parents child.
God Bless Carly and give her ongoing strength to handle the new problem with whatever you guys uncover as the best approach to help your sweet little daughter get through this new challenge...Love and Best Wishes...-Jack*
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