About 2 months ago, coming up to Abbey's 6th birthday, Samantha and Wes started the process to have some urinary issues investigated for her.  After getting an ultrasound on October 30th, they found out that there was an extensive tumor on her left adrenal (gland above the kidney).  Since then, their days have been filled with many tests and unfortunately not a lot of answers.  This week is going to be filled with more testing which will include radioactive dye injections, a bone marrow biopsy and two days of testing that requires being under general anesthesia.  The end of the week brings an 8 hour surgery that will hopefully answer many of the questions as to the origin and extent of this mass.  Long term treatment will be determined on the findings from the surgery.  

Right now the Blackburns are facing the unknowns of a definitive diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan.  As a parent, it is a terrifying experience to find out that your child is sick and must undergo surgery and likely chemotherapy.  

Sam and Wes have both spent their careers as healthcare workers helping others.  Wes in the lab and Sam as a nurse.  Abbey has a little sister Hailey, who will be along to support and give her lots of hugs throughout this journey.  It is likely that many hospital visits/overnight stays lay ahead for Abbey.   Positive thoughts, prayers, and energy are of utmost importance and very much needed and appreciated.  Their greatest hope is that Abbey will be able to look back on this someday and say, "Look what I did and beat when I was 6.  I can do anything."

Many have asked how they could help.  Relieving them of some financial pressures will allow them to focus on the love and mutual support needed during treatment, healing and recovery.  No matter how big or small a donation, everything helps and I know they would be eternally grateful!

Thank you for taking the time to read this.  I will continue updating with information on Abbey's treatment as more is discovered.