Parker Bolton, Brain Cancer Warrior! Round 2

For those of you that don’t know, over the past month, Parker has been experiencing intense migraines and constant weakness in his right leg causing some difficulty walking.  Parker, being the smart young man he is, let Ashley and Joe know what he was experiencing and they took swift action to get Parker in for an MRI.    On Monday, June 1st, the MRI confirmed a tumor growing in the left frontal lobe of Parker’s brain and the weakness and tingling in his right leg was actually a Focal Onset Aware Seizure caused by the tumor pressing on the left frontal lobe.  Immediately, they were referred to Lurie Children’s Hospital where they were introduced to Parker’s surgery team, comprised of an incredible team of doctors and nurses led by Dr. Art DiPatri.  Dr. DiPatri and his team are very optimistic that the will be able to successfully remove the tumor and Parker will be able to go on to live a healthy life!   This entire process - learning about what a tumor is and what is happening in his brain, the numerous doctors’ visits, calls with Dr. DiPatri regarding plans on how we are going to kick this tumor’s butt (and the extra hugs from mom and dad!), would be scary for anyone at any age!  But Parker, at 11 years old, has been so incredibly brave and we are beyond proud of how he has handled this news.      Parker will be having a craniotomy on Monday, June 8th and will be recovering at Lurie’s for a few days post-surgery.  With that being said, as you can imagine, the bills from this surgery will be quite large and the last thing Joe and Ashley need to worry about is the financial impact of this surgery and recovery.  So we have started a GoFundMe so they can focus solely on the health and well-being of Parker as he recovers.   We know times are difficult for so many and thank you in advance for any amount you are able to donate to help!  Whether you are able to donate or not, we are asking for all of the prayers and positive vibes for Parker and our family!       Thank you, Team Parker