Sydney's Story
Thank you for taking the time to peak into the lives of a bright young girl and her loved ones and to hear a little bit about Sydney's story!
If you know Sydney's parents and Mandi then you know they are always on the go with their children. This particular Saturday there were plans for Sydney and her two brothers to venture to the dog park to take their new puppy Royal out to burn some energy; but not before going to visit the eye doctor so Sydney could try out contacts out before she started her first day of 7th grade in a new school! 
As the Dr. proceeded with the normal routine of checking ones eyes she became suspicious when she noticed that Sydney had a swollen optical nerve. She explained that this could be a one of two things: worse case scenario-a brain tumor or more likely that it was a pseudotumor. The Dr. asked that another eye Dr. in the office take a look at Sydney's eyes as well. The second Dr. expressed more of a concern and advised that Sydney be taken directly to Children's Mercy Hospital to complete a MRI. Unfortunately, the MRI revealed a large brain tumor. At this time it was unknown whether or not it was cancerous. Sydney was immediately admitted to the ICU where she was monitored very closely. Due to the size and placement of the tumor the doctors were concerned about a handful of complications, including seizures. 
On Wednesday August 17th, Sydney underwent brain surgery. The purpose of this brain surgery was to pop and drain the cysts that both surrounded and were in her tumor and to remove as much as the tumor as possible. Unfortunately due to the size and placement of the tumor the surgeons were only able to remove 50% of the tumor. 50% of the tumor remains in Sydney's brain.
On Friday August 19th, the unfortunate news was confirmed that Sydney's tumor was in fact cancerous. Sydney was diagnosed with Ganglioglioma. The doctors at Children's Mercy stated that Sydeny will have to receive chemotherapy weekly for at least a year. She will have MRI's every three weeks or so to see what progress is being made. 
As many of you know Steve and Mandi and Wanda work very hard to provide for their family and to ensure that their children are able to enjoy life to it's fullest! Unfortunately medical expenses are going to take a toll on their lives soon. This is why I am asking for any amount of donations to help this family. The cost of chemotherapy, and many other tests and treatments that Sydney will have to undergo is going to add up quickly, not to mention the several trips to and from Children's Mercy Hospital weekly, medications, time off work, etc.
Sydney is a 12 year old girl who loves her family. She is very close with her two younger brothers and plays an active role in their daily lives. Sydney is active in church and enjoys singing. She loves anything to do with arts and crafts. She is a bit of a daddy's girl, but certainly enjoys girl time with her mom. 
Sydney's family is truly one of a kind and are the type of people that you just want to surrond yourself with, not only for the constant laughter that they will provide but for the loving friendships that they give to everyone in their lives. I'm asking that you please take the time to pray for this family and hold them in your thoughts. I truly believe in coming together in times like this and building one another up with your love and comfort. I'm sure I can speak for Sydney and all her loved ones when I say they are eternally grateful for each and every one of you. As am I. 
Thank you again, for taking the time to read Sydney's Story.
Blessings,
April Biggerstaff
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