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On March 22nd, Lauren was unexpectedly diagnosed with a brain tumor. The neurosurgical team at Jefferson successfully removed all of the tumor from the right frontal lobe of her brain. On Monday, Lauren received the pathology results which classified the tumor as a stage 3, astrocytoma with a IDH Mutation.
So what does all this mean?
Grade: 3
- Grades 1-4 (least to most aggressive)
Type: Astrocytoma, IDH Mutation
- Astrocytoma: A type of cancer that can occur in the brain or spinal cord. It begins in cells called astrocytes that support nerve cells.
- IDH Mutation: Mutations in IDH genes prevent cells from differentiating, or specializing, into the kind of cells they are ultimately supposed to become. When cells can't differentiate properly, they may begin to grow out of control. (This type of mutation is supposed to be 'better' than a non-mutation)
Treatment Plan: Combination of radiation & chemotherapy
- Radiation: 1x/day for 5 days/week for approx. 6 weeks and could potentially continue for 5 days/month for the rest of the year.
- They will not target the entire brain, only the internal incision which means there will be a lesser chance of side effects
- Chemotherapy: Will start shortly after radiation at home via oral pill, 5 days/month for 1 year
- Additional Medication: Anti-nausea meds and antibiotics along the way (in addition to the current anti-seizure meds)
- MRI Scans: At least once every 2 months.
The medical team is confident that the entire tumor has been removed based on her post-surgery MRI, but the treatment plan is to reduce the risk of re-occurrence.
Overall, Lauren feels really good about the Jefferson team. They've all been so nice, patient, and great caregivers to date. However, in true Lauren fashion, she is doing her medical due diligence to get a second opinion on her treatment plan.
As you can imagine, it takes a village to support someone going through their cancer journey. Lauren was paired with a social worker from Jeff who has shared some great resources in terms of buddy programs, patient support groups (one specifically for Brain Cancer and another for young adults under 40), and clinical trial options.
We are hoping the GoFundMe & MealTrain pages will help Lauren with her healing journey and provide even more support along the way.
Organisateur et bénéficiaire
Alison McManimie
Organisateur
Philadelphia, PA
Lauren Vella
Bénéficiaire