Comfort and Care for Sweet Eva

Our hearts are heavy as we stand beside the Clemens family during an unimaginably difficult time. Recently, their daughter Eva was diagnosed with a diffuse midline glioma—a rare, aggressive tumor located on the brain stem. Tragically, this type of tumor is inoperable and incurable, and carries a very poor prognosis, with an average life expectancy of 9 to 12 months following diagnosis. As you can imagine, the family is devastated and facing a reality no one should ever have to endure.

In the face of this heartbreaking diagnosis, Eva’s parents are doing everything they can to prioritize her comfort and joy. Their focus is on giving Eva the best quality of life possible—preserving her childhood and creating meaningful memories together. Though there may be moments of pain, their hope is to keep her as comfortable and happy as they can during the time they have.

Right now, they are working closely with a neuro-oncologist at the Children's Hospital of Minnesota to understand next steps. With more questions than answers, they are navigating difficult decisions around treatments and care with the guiding principle of what’s best for Eva in each moment.

Eva knows that she has a tumor in her brain, which is why part of her face isn’t moving and she can’t hear from one ear. Her parents are being honest with her in age-appropriate ways, encouraging her to ask questions and stay curious. They are committed to helping her feel safe and supported while facing this uncertain journey.

Please keep this family in your thoughts as they move through a time filled with love, heartbreak, and resilience. If and when there are ways we can support them—through words, presence, or action—we’ll share them.