A 5 year old South African was recently diagnosed with a high grade brain tumour but instead of sadness, her light and love is shining even brighter!
Ariella is a spunky and vivacious 5year old who loves singing, dancing and Havaianas. A day after Ariella’s 5th birthday she was admitted into hospital and our worst nightmare came true when the little angel was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG).
DIPG is a highly aggressive brain tumour found in an area of the brainstem which controls many of the body’s most vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.
Unfortunately there is currently no known cure, and due to its rarity there is little funding for research.
The cause of brain tumours, including DIPG, is not yet known. This can be one of the most difficult things to accept as a parent as it can leave you feeling helpless.
Most children only survive for approximately 9months after diagnosis, and only 10% survive for longer than 2years. The symptoms of DIPG usually develop very rapidly, these include; problems controlling eye movements, speech, swallowing, walking and coordination.
“In the 2weeks since her diagnosis there has already been an increase in symptoms, but no matter what she’s been through with multiple doctors’ appointments, scans and “shots” as she calls them, she has lost none of her shine.
Her ability to light up a room with her joy, humour and intellect is indescribable, finding her way into the hearts of all.”
The family is currently researching clinical trials overseas which may be their only hope at finding a cure or offering Ariella a better quality of life. These trials and other costs involved can be exorbitant, sometimes totalling $500,000.00 or more.
Anthy Lambaskis, Ariella’s god-mother, started a crowdfunding campaign immediately after finding out about the diagnosis and is hoping to help Ariella and perhaps even find a cure for all these beautiful little warriors.
Click the link to assist Ariella and her family
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