Paula Cook, who is the daughter of Mark and Maggie Schultz, was diagnosed at 36 years old with an aggressive brain tumor while 5 months pregnant. Here is an update:

Paula is fighting hard — and it’s working. Her tumor has shrunk by 75%, and that is something worth celebrating.

But the battle isn’t over. Paula lives with severe nerve pain, balance and gait disturbances, weakness and reduced motor control in her left arm and hand, and significant loss of endurance. Things that should be simple — holding 11 month old baby Cameron, playing with her 5-year-old Andrew in the yard, walking, sleeping, taking her kids out for the afternoon — are a real struggle for her right now. Andrew just graduated preschool and is about to start kindergarten. Cameron is almost walking. Paula deserves to be fully present for every bit of it.

Her doctor has recommended two therapies: Sanexas nerve treatment and Calmar pain therapy. Calmar requires her to travel to Bonita Springs for two consecutive weeks of intensive treatment, which is not covered by her insurance. This doesn’t include renting a place and daily expenses.

These treatments offer real hope for reducing Paula’s pain and restoring function, so she can hold her babies, play in the yard, and be there for the moments that matter most.

Please give what you can, share her story, or simply send her some love. It means everything to Paula and her family — and to those of us who love her. .

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated to help the Cook Family cope with this diagnosis and its financial ramifications.