My name is Teresa and this is my granddaughter Aubree she is 9 years old and this is her journey.

Aubree's journey began on February 3rd when her parents took her for her annual eye exam. They observed her struggling to read certain things and noticed she was standing very close to the TV. During her eye exam, they attempted to provide her with various prescriptions to improve her vision. Despite trying many different options, her vision remained at 25/100, and she continued to struggle to see clearly. They decided it would be in Aubree's best interest to see an eye specialist.

On February 7th, they visited the specialist, and Aubree underwent several different field tests and had numerous images taken of her eyes. After examining Aubree, the specialist ultimately discovered that something was obstructing her optic nerve and recommended an MRI.

On February 12, Aubree went in for her MRI. About 30 minutes after the procedure, her pediatrician called them with news no one ever expected: Aubree has a brain tumor.

That's the day our lives changed forever.

We were devastated. Our fun-loving, gymnastics-loving, soccer-loving girl was just diagnosed with a BRAIN TUMOR. How do you go on from that? How do you live day to day not knowing what comes next?

That same day, Aubree was scheduled to see a neurosurgeon. The appointment was a week away.

As they waited for the appointment, stress levels began to rise as they wondered what would happen.

On February 19, they went to see the neurosurgeon. During the appointment, they reviewed the MRI results and discovered that it was an optic nerve glioma, a rare type of tumor. Only 5% of tumors diagnosed in children are this type. Unfortunately, surgery was not an option, as it could potentially cause total blindness and damage a hormone-producing gland in her brain, requiring her to take hormone medication for the rest of her life. They were then referred to Children’s Mercy in Kansas City.

On February 24, they went for an MRI of Aubree's brain and spine, followed by appointments with hematology and oncology. On February 25, we met with the oncologist. We reviewed the MRI results, and he informed us that the tumor was not only in her optic nerves but also where her optic nerves meet. It's called optic pathway glioma. We then discussed treatment options, and it was ultimately decided that Aubree should start chemotherapy as soon as possible. This meant that she would need a port for access to the treatments. She will receive treatments once a month for up to a year.

On March 6th, Aubree had her port placed and began her first round of treatment. She handled it like the rockstar she is!

Throughout this challenging time, Aubree has been a light for us all, and she has kept a smile on her face most of the time. We know this is in Gods hands and we will get through this.

Aubree and our entire family would be deeply grateful for any support you can offer during this challenging time. My son, Cody, and my daughter-in-law, Megen, will need to take significant time off from work to manage Aubree's treatments, which include blood work, MRIs, and ongoing chemotherapy. These treatments are not only physically taxing for Aubree but also come with substantial logistical and financial challenges. The hospital is three hours away, which means they need to travel the night before each treatment for testing, followed by chemo the next day. This often requires staying overnight in a motel, adding to their expenses.

If you're following Aubree's journey, we humbly ask for your help in covering these costs. Donations can be made through GoFundMe, or, if you prefer, via Cash App at $megenspoor or Venmo at @Megen-Spoor.

Even if you're unable to contribute financially, your thoughts and prayers mean the world to us. Please keep Aubree and our family in your hearts as we navigate this together. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Psalm 23:4
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me"