Hi, my name is Terri Handrich. I am raising funds for my very good friends Jena, Logan and their daughter Oaklynn Joan (Oakie Jo).

Tuesday, November 26th, their world was turned upside down. While Oakie was having an MRI at Children’s Hospital, they found a tumor on her brain. They were admitted immediately, and teams of doctors started coming in to talk with Jena. It was a whirlwind of information going in Jena's ears, but all she could hear was, Your daughter has a brain tumor.

Oaklynn Joan Laurent, or as her family lovingly calls her, Oakie Jo, is a bright, smart and beautiful 3-year-old whose journey has touched the hearts of everyone who knows her. From the very beginning, Oakie Jo has been a fighter. Born prematurely, she spent her first few weeks in the NICU, growing stronger each day until she was finally able to come home and be with her loving family.

As Oakie Jo grew, her parents noticed that she was developing a bit slower than other children her age. Despite countless doctor visits and therapy sessions, no clear explanation for her delays emerged. Undeterred, her family pursued answers, knowing deep down that something more was affecting their sweet girl. Over time, Oakie Jo faced a series of ear infections, each one more painful than the last. Her parents, tirelessly sought help, often dismissed by medical professionals who told them they were overreacting. But their unwavering determination led them to a doctor who truly listened.

On November 26th, 2024 at 9:56am in MRI room 6, their world changed forever. Oakie Jo underwent an MRI at Children’s Hospital to investigate her developmental delays, severe "torticollis" and recurring ear infections. The results were devastating: a tumor had been found in her brain. Oakie Jo was immediately admitted to the hospital for further evaluation and preparation for surgery. It was a whirlwind of emotions, but through it all, Oakie Jo’s spirit shined brightly melting the hearts of all the hospital staff.

Thanksgiving evening brought a bittersweet moment as Oakie Jo was discharged to the Ronald McDonald House, just across the street from the hospital, to await her surgery. On December 2nd, she faced her biggest challenge yet. Bright and early, she went into surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. After six grueling hours, the surgeons emerged with both hope and heartache: while they had removed much of the tumor, a portion remained intertwined with her brainstem, making complete removal impossible.

Recovery was not easy. Oakie Jo battled high fevers, endured countless tests and MRIs, and faced weeks of isolation as doctors worked to rule out infections. But through it all, her resilience amazed everyone around her. Her contagious laugh and radiant smile lifted the spirits of her family and the medical staff alike.

On December 24th, a Christmas miracle occurred. Oakie Jo was released from the hospital at 7pm to the Ronald McDonald House under a "Steps to Home" program. For the first time in weeks, she celebrated Christmas with her parents and siblings, Breyhten 13, Charlye 8, and Blair 6 by filling the room with joy and laughter. By January 1st, 2025, Oakie Jo was finally able to return home, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

A follow-up MRI on January 15th showed improvement from a surgery standpoint and the full pathology came back confirming that Oakie Jo’s tumor was a Ganglioglioma KIAA1549:BRAF fusion—a low-grade, slow-growing cancerous tumor. While the news was difficult to process, Oakie Jo’s parents remained steadfast in their resolve to find the best possible treatment. They are currently exploring all options, including second and third opinions and clinical trials in other states.

Through it all, Oakie Jo continues to inspire. Despite her balance challenges and ongoing therapy, she’s thriving at home, playing with her siblings and embracing her "normal" life with joy and determination. Her laughter is a beacon of hope, capable of brightening even the darkest days.

 

Oakie Jo’s journey is far from over, but her strength and spirit are a testament to the power of love, resilience, and hope. Her family’s unwavering dedication and the support of her community remind us all that even in the face of the toughest battles, there is always light. Together, they are determined to give Oakie Jo the brightest future possible.