Just under half of children with brain tumors have symptoms that affect their vision. Brain tumors either from direct compression of the visual pathway by the tumor or from elevated pressure from increased fluid (hydrocephalus) in the brain. Most children with brain tumors have obstructive hydrocephalus at diagnosis, according to Michael Angelo Huang, M.D., pediatric…
A child who has sudden changes in vision, hearing or speech, or develops balance issues or other symptoms that suggest a possible brain tumor may need to have 3D pictures taken of their brain. “Based on a child’s symptoms and a clinical evaluation, brain imaging is the next step,” said Mustafa Barbour, M.D., pediatric hematologist/oncologist…
Surrounded by nurses and staff, Alaina Kenney proudly rang the “end of treatment bell” at Norton Children’s Hospital. The celebration in early August marked the end of the 13-year-old’s chemotherapy treatments, nearly four years after being diagnosed neuroblastoma, a type of cancer found most often in kids and infants. One day in September 2019, as…
Through two brain surgeries, months of chemotherapy and a lot of hospital visits over the last three years, “Incredible Abel” had one goal — to be well enough to try football. “I don’t think he’s ever had the opportunity to be a typical kid, but now he has the chance,” said Ashely Durham, Abel Durham’s…
It’s hard for Annashae Wyatt to remember life before her diagnosis. While most kids her age were starting to explore the world, Annashae’s took an unexpected turn. At just 4 years old, she was diagnosed with Type 1 neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form in nerve tissue. At the time of her…
Dixie Robertson is like other kids you may know. She’s playful, funny, and full of personality. Dixie cares deeply for her family — which is now officially bigger after her longtime wish of being adopted by her stepfather, Thomas, has come true. She’s incredibly strong, in fact stronger than any 10-year-old, any child or any…
Kids with leukemia and lymphoma now have access to one of the latest advancements in treatment, a revolutionary immunotherapy known as chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy, at Norton Children’s Cancer Institute, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine. The cancer care program at Norton Children’s Hospital, located in the Addison Jo Blair Cancer…
As Liam Atherton crossed the finish line at the Bluegrass BMX championship last fall, the 11-year-old couldn’t help but smile. Not only had Liam won the race in the sport he loves, but just hours earlier, he finished chemotherapy to conquer a spine tumor that threatened his mobility. Liam has participated in BMX since he…
Savannah Garner is a trouper. That is the biggest takeaway from the people closest to her. The fifth-grade girl from Louisville has been living with a medical condition for most of her life. Savannah was diagnosed at age 2 1/2, and for eight years, she has undergone treatment at Norton Children’s Hospital and Norton Children’s…
Cancer patients at Norton Children’s now have a furry companion to help them through treatment. Thanks to a gift from Aiden’s Legacy and with support from raiseRED, Luna is the newest employee of Norton Children’s Cancer Institute, affiliated with the UofL School of Medicine. The 2-year-old black Labrador works in the cancer unit in Norton…
Supporting a child during leukemia treatment can feel overwhelming, but there are several things to help make the recovery at home easier and more comfortable. Making a few changes to the home can help a child be more comfortable during or after treatment: Lower the child’s bed or use a step stool. Put items or…
What is Wilms tumor? Wilms tumor is a type of cancer that starts in the kidneys. It is the most common form of kidney cancer in children. According to a new study, around 15% of children with Wilms tumor are genetically predisposed to the disease. Genetic testing is available to patients of Norton Children’s Cancer…