Abigails’s Army
In June of this year, Abigail Nicosia walked with the rest of the 8th grade graduating Byram Intermediate School Class. Abby celebrated with her best friends and remembered her years playing field hockey, lacrosse, field trips (Frost Valley), Girl Scouts and especially spending time with her true passion being onstage doing theater.
What no one knew at that time was a large brain tumor was growing. Earlier that year in December, Abby started to get sick. What started out as headaches and dizziness soon led to pain and vomiting, significant weight loss and the inability to make it through the day. After numerous doctor and hospital visits, Abby ended up in the Emergency Room at Morristown Memorial Hospital on July 17th, a large brain tumor was discovered at this time.
Amazing surgeons took six hours and removed most of the tumor. The remaining tumor is attached to the Brain Stem in an area that is inoperable and will need further treatment after Abby recovers. Because of the size of the tumor and the trauma caused to Abby’s brain recovery has been difficult and challenging. Abby will be transferred to Children’s Specialized Hospital where she will receive top-of-the-line care from experts in brain trauma from PT, OT, Speech, etc. Her Mom will stay with her at the hospital and her dad and the families will travel to and from Children’s Hospital to visit Abby during her stay. After leaving Children’s Hospital, the family will have to equip her home for the continued rehabilitation needed for her care.
Once Abby is stronger, they will start the second phase of her recovery to remove the remaining tumor. This will include other hospitals and doctors to explore all the treatment options available.
Everyone has been asking how they can help, this would be a way to help the family offset some of the cost - Abby’s mobility needs, travel and cost for hospital stays, and unexpected out- of-pocket expenses.
The family appreciates and is humbled by the outpouring of love and support shown to Abby and the entire family during this time.
