Debbie’s Dilemma–Help in her fight!
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My sister Debbie started getting headaches and forgetful spells in 2008. Finally in 2009 she was diagnosed with a PNET (Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumour). The tumour was the size of a navel orange and she underwent brain surgery to remove it. Unfortunately, the surgeons could not remove everything due to the fact that it had invaded part of her cranium. She underwent radiation and chemo as follow up treatment in hopes it would kill whatever was left of the tumour.
Sadly the tumour is extremely stubborn but luckily so is my sister!
To date Debbie has undergone three surgeries and numerous types of chemo. She has experienced countless seizures, has lost her hair several times and has endured all the side effects that accompany treatment. The positioning and size of the tumour have affected her memory. Some days her memory loss does not affect her too much but most days it is an issue and becomes quite frustrating for her. Last December she had an episode which caused her to lose three months of her life. After this event the doctors informed us that they had exhausted most available options, however, there was one treatment that deemed promising. It is an IV administered drug which inhibits vascular endothelial growth. Although Avastin (bevacizumab) is a common treatment for cancer patients and has been on the market for sometime, both OHIP and Debbie’s private insurance consider it a “new” drug and won’t cover the cost.
My goal is to raise enough money for her to be able to try this option for six months. This is the amount of time the Doctor says is needed to determine its effectiveness. The cost is approximately $4,500 per month.
Debbie has lost so much due to her illness. She was a very independent woman that held down two jobs, however, has not been able to return to her jobs because of her memory deficits. With no income she has had to give up her home. And her seizures took away her right to drive leaving her dependent upon friends and family. Anyone who has met Debbie knows she is a caring person who gives the biggest hugs and the best birthday wishes! She deserves every chance she can get to battle this disease.
Thank you for your time and prayers.
Sadly the tumour is extremely stubborn but luckily so is my sister!
To date Debbie has undergone three surgeries and numerous types of chemo. She has experienced countless seizures, has lost her hair several times and has endured all the side effects that accompany treatment. The positioning and size of the tumour have affected her memory. Some days her memory loss does not affect her too much but most days it is an issue and becomes quite frustrating for her. Last December she had an episode which caused her to lose three months of her life. After this event the doctors informed us that they had exhausted most available options, however, there was one treatment that deemed promising. It is an IV administered drug which inhibits vascular endothelial growth. Although Avastin (bevacizumab) is a common treatment for cancer patients and has been on the market for sometime, both OHIP and Debbie’s private insurance consider it a “new” drug and won’t cover the cost.
My goal is to raise enough money for her to be able to try this option for six months. This is the amount of time the Doctor says is needed to determine its effectiveness. The cost is approximately $4,500 per month.
Debbie has lost so much due to her illness. She was a very independent woman that held down two jobs, however, has not been able to return to her jobs because of her memory deficits. With no income she has had to give up her home. And her seizures took away her right to drive leaving her dependent upon friends and family. Anyone who has met Debbie knows she is a caring person who gives the biggest hugs and the best birthday wishes! She deserves every chance she can get to battle this disease.
Thank you for your time and prayers.
Organisateur
Victoria Bimm
Organisateur
New Tecumseth, ON