Carmen Mielke's Recovery Fund

Carmen began experiencing pain in her neck and shoulder area a couple of months ago. After consulting with doctors, they suspected it could be a pinched nerve. Unfortunately, her condition progressively worsened, and by Sunday, August 11th, she was unable to walk and was experiencing numbness. She was taken to the ER for scans and after discovering a mass, the medical team in Wausau decided to transport her to UW Madison Hospital, where there is greater expertise in treating this type of tumor. Carmen underwent surgery on Monday, in which the surgeon was able to remove 95% or more of the mass. She remained in the Neurologic ICU through Thursday. At that point we learned that the tumor was malignant and typically found in pediatric patients. She has been transferred to the pediatric oncology unit to ensure the best treatment possible. Carmen will need rehabilitation to regain strength to stand, walk, etc. Each day presents new challenges and goals to be met. She will be undergoing chemotherapy and immunotherapy when she is stronger, likely in the next week or two. We are still waiting for more pathology results as to the origin of the tumor We will keep friends and family updated as we learn more. Carmen intends to attend UW-Eau Claire in the spring semester for marketing. Thank you for your support as we navigate the unexpected costs associated with travel, extended stays and the possibility of running out of family paid sick leave. Please keep Carmen in your thoughts and prayers. We truly appreciate all support we have received.