On May 21, 2008, my 4-year-old grandnephew Kaleb was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor called medulloblastoma. After having symptoms for less than two weeks, the tumor was about the size of a lemon and had begun to affect his motor skills. On May 23, Kaleb had a 10-hour surgery to remove the tumor from the base of his cerebellum, just above the brain stem. He was in the hospital for just about two weeks, and he is now undergoing radiation and chemotherapy.

Since medulloblastoma affects motor skills and speech, recovery can include both speech therapy and physical therapy. Thankfully, even just a couple days after his extensive surgery, Kaleb was able to ask for food and drink, his swelling had going down, and his prognosis is excellent. It appears the cancer has not spread into the spinal cord or other areas of his body.

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Just recently, Kaleb got a staph infection in his surgical site, which required surgery. He’s back on his regular radiation and chemotherapy schedule.

How can you help?

Kaleb’s mom Jennifer doesn’t know this (yet), but we’ve set up an account to help her with expenses. Kaleb’s medical expenses are covered by insurance, but his mom has been missing work and will be missing more in the foreseeable future. Besides the usual expenses, there will be a lot of driving back and forth to go to chemotherapy and radiation treatments as well as any further therapies and appointments he might need. Any donations are appreciated – whether you’d like to donate money toward bills, or purchase a gas card or grocery store gift certificate (Wal-Mart and Shaws are two that are near by), it’s sure to come in handy. Thank you for your prayers and support! - Kaleb’s grandaunt Crystal