Two siblings were both diagnosed with aggressive brain tumors within two weeks of each other. The siblings both have had their tumors removed and are preparing to start chemotherapy with their parents by their sides.
Double Trouble
Kalea Avery, 6, was the first to be diagnosed after she informed her parents that she was experiencing intense headaches. When the headaches wouldn't go away, Kalea's parents brought her to the hospital. The doctors discovered that Kalea had Medulloblastoma, which is a cancerous tumor at the base of the skull that spreads to other parts of the brain and the spine.
While Kalea was hospitalized and being prepared for surgery, her 4-year-old brother, Noah Avery, began experiencing similar symptoms. Doctors examined Noah and found that the 4-year-old had the same massive tumor in the same area as his sister.
The siblings' neurosurgeon, pediatrician, and oncologist were mystified by the diagnosis since this has never occurred before. Kalea had surgery to get her tumor removed on June 11 and her brother, Noah, had his tumor removed on June 25. The siblings are now preparing to undergo intense chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Road To Recovery
Kalea and Noah's parents, Duncan, a surf coach, and Nohea, a nurse practitioner, have taken time off from their jobs to be at their children's side. Nohea stated that she was unsure of how her family will get through this difficult situation, but they will find a way.
The family has also stated that the children are doing well in recovery. On their GoFundMe page, the family revealed that Noah is talking, eating on his own, and moving his body parts, but still requires pain medication.
"These are all very reassuring signs that he does not have posterior fossa syndrome, the postoperative syndrome that can cause mutism, speech disturbances, or decreased motor movement," the family wrote.
Kalea was able to go outside for the first time in 20 days and was able to go down a slide by herself. As of now, The GoFundMe page raised over $70,000 for the medical expenses of the children.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Medulloblastoma can occur at any age but is often prevalent in young children. The rare cancerous tumor is the most common form of brain tumor in children. Most symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, tiredness, and poor coordination.
Medulloblastoma cannot be inherited but certain syndromes such as Gorlin's syndrome or Turcot's syndrome could increase the risk of developing cancer.
