Support Emma's Road to Recovery

Emma is four months old and the first child for Cortney and Donal McCarthy, Sunrise, Fl. While pregnant with Emma, Cortney's doctor found the placenta to be abnormal and discussed the possibility of a genetic syndrome. Due to in utero complications, Emma was born 7 weeks premature. Cortney spent her days and nights with Emma in the NICU, and Donal balanced visiting Emma, going to work, and taking care of their home. Emma surprised everyone with her growth and strength, and she was able to go home after 2 weeks. A cyst was discovered on her liver, but the doctor believed it was nothing more than that. Surgery was scheduled for the beginning of July, and everyone remained optimistic.

Unfortunately the cyst was found to be a malignant tumor, and further screening led to an additional tumor. Emma was diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, cancer of the liver. Within two weeks, Emma had been operated on twice. Both surgeries were traumatic for Emma. The first surgery required an incision the width of her belly, which produced much discomfort for her during recovery, requiring morphine. The second surgery led to cardiac arrest during the operation and required multiple emergency blood transfusions during recovery. Emma is currently in PICU at Joe DiMaggio's Children's Hospital and in a sedative state to remain calm and comfortable. Once she has regained her strength, she will begin receiving chemotherapy.

Your support will alleviate medical costs and everyday expenses. Donal has spent countless hours away from work to visit Emma and Cortney during Emma's numerous hospital stays. Emma will be under the care of doctors and screened for the next ten years, at least. Every gift matters and would be greatly appreciated.
With love,
Lindsey Dryer, Cortney's Cousin