Elsie was diagnosed with a Stage 1 Wilms Tumor just one week after her 3^rd birthday. We went in for a routine well child check. Her pediatrician felt an abnormality in Elsie stomach. After a long day of x-rays, ultrasounds, blood work and a CT scan we went home with a tentative diagnosis and surgery scheduled for 3 days later. We were devastated, but Elsie’s prognosis was hopeful.

Elsie had her left kidney and a large tumor removed. We spent a week in the hospital and then she started a 5-month protocol of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy was difficult, lots of time in the clinic, medicines at home, and pokes with needles. But overall Elsie did very well, never requiring another overnight hospitalization or transfusions. During her treatment and over the five years following all her scans have been clear, showing no evidence of reoccurring cancer.

Elsie’s largest hurdle with cancer began at about the 12^th week of her chemotherapy protocol. We noticed she was walking differently and struggling to hold her spoon to feed herself. Her physical therapist at Children’s Hospital quickly recognized these symptoms as chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy. Elsie’s case of this became profound, requiring physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthotic leg braces, and even an adjustment to her chemotherapy protocol.

Research into the long-term effects of chemotherapy is underfunded and children and families tend to be underserved. Fortunately for us, Children’s Hospital of Minnesota is at the forefront of this issue. Elsie received arguably the best physical therapy and orthotic care services available. Despite this Elsie continues to struggle with the damage the chemotherapy caused. She still wears orthotic leg braces and has weekly physical therapy. We are hopeful she will recover but also are aware this maybe a permanent disability. As she is learning more about her own cancer story, it is hard to understand how medicines that are meant to help you can also cause harm.

Consider a donation to support kids like Elsie, no amount is too big or too small. St. Jude’s, The Cancer Research Fund, The Children’s Oncology Group all support vital research to not only find more cures but also better outcomes for all childhood cancer survivors.

These are other highly reputable organizations that supported our family in our journey through pediatric cancer: Pinky Swear, Hope Kids, Camp Sunshine, Children’s Hospital of Minnesota Foundation & Make a Wish

Follow Elsie's story on CaringBridge via this link...Elsie's Story

*Click on the photo of Elsie to see more from her session.