Children with NF1 are prone to develop a type of brain tumor that affects the nerve that carries vision from the eyes to the brain, known as an optic pathway glioma (OPG). In some instances, these tumors cause progressive vision loss, and require treatment with chemotherapy.Ally is one of our children with NF1 and a progressive OPG. A six-year-old girl now preparing for first grade, Ally has been battling her OPG since August 2011. After four different types of chemotherapy and one surgery, we are happy to report that Ally’s tumor is stable.
On August 4, 2014, Ally received her final dose of chemotherapy. As is the tradition for children cared for by the Pediatric Neuro-Oncology team, Ally celebrated her big day by ringing the bell in the oncology wing at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Friends, family, physicians, nurses, and Team NF were there to cheer her on. Even Ronald McDonald made a special appearance.
“It was a beautiful moment.” said Team NF Coordinator Kirsten Brouillet, “Seeing the family together celebrating and smiling really puts everything into perspective.”
Please join us in congratulating Ally and her family on this momentous occasion. To see Ally’s big day for yourself, please watch our video Ally Rings the Bell.
 |
 |
 |
 |