Supporting Meadow Carmody

In early April 2023, the Carmody family received the news that Meadow, their 14-year-old daughter, has been diagnosed with a horrific type of brain cancer, Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). There is no documented case of a child surviving DIPG. Nearly all (>99%) die within 18 months due to the cancer degrading the nerve signals necessary for eye function, mobility, swallowing, and finally breathing.

The only treatment is radiation. Chemo is not effective on this type of cancer and surgery is not an option because of its location. Typically, treatment occurs in the first 3 months there is a short respite from symptoms, then loss of function and death occur in months 6- 18 with further treatment not being effective and producing diminishing returns.

In the face of this shocking tragedy, Meadow continues to be an inspiration to her family and friends. She is leading with bravery, self-advocacy, determination, care, hope, and even humor. She hopes to spend the respite months with loved ones doing some typical fun teenager things (thrifting, going to the beach, and walking at her middle school graduation), and also desires to travel and enjoy the world with friends and family.

Meadow’s family is supporting her with unconditional love and strength. They are focusing on joy and not on unfairness or loss. Together, they make up an amazing team ready to hold Meadow through the ups and downs of the journey to come.

The funds their community raises will be used to support the family with medical expenses, taking time off work, making Meadow’s homes wheelchair accessible, and providing Meadow with the best quality of life possible. Your donation will not only bring relief to financial stresses, but also contribute to moments of joy and connection. You are also invited to donate at any level as a communication of your support and love, to help the family feel connected to the larger community as they focus on supporting Meadow and each other.