Briana's Medical Journey
Donation protected
Briana is Chris and Jess' first born and a wonderful big sister to two-year-old, Jordyn. Briana just celebrated her fourth birthday on January 2nd. She is an absolute ray of sunshine and lights up our lives with her smile. She's sassy, spunky, loving, funny, and full of personality. Like any four year old, she loves playing with her sister and cousins, enjoys dress-up, Polly Pockets, and riding her bike.
What happened?
On 1/20/21, the Speese/McArthur Family's lives were turned upside down with the discovery of a tumor in Briana's abdomen after her pediatrician noticed a lump on her stomach. After undergoing an MRI at Lehigh Valley Children's Hospital on the 21st, the doctors believe Briana has neuroblastoma. This is a cancer that develops from immature nerve cells and typically affects children under the age of five. Unfortunately, the cancer has also spread to her spine and pelvis. Currently, the tumor is not causing any pain or discomfort.
What's next?
Thankfully, Briana was able to come home from the hospital for the weekend. Jess and Chris have decided to transfer Briana's care to CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia). LVCH was going to conduct a biopsy to confirm if it is indeed a neuroblastoma and to determine the stage of the tumor. A port was going to be put in for blood draws and to administer chemo and other medications. Lastly, they planned to retrieve bone marrow samples. Briana's first appointment at CHOP is on Monday 1/25. It could take up to two weeks for an official diagnosis and then a treatment plan will be made.
Typical treatments for neuroblastomas include surgery, chemo, and radiation dependent upon on the location and stage of the tumor.
How can you help?
Aside from the medical bills that will quickly pile up, Chris and Jess will be commuting to and from the hospital or finding local lodging on a regular, if not daily, basis. They'll be spending a ton of money on gas, food, parking, and hotels so they can remain close to their daughter. Aside from all of the expenses related to Briana's treatment, Chris and Jess still need to worry about their regular bills - mortgage, electric, car, phone, etc...
Jess, Chris, Briana, and Jordyn are facing a whole new world of unknowns and uncertainty. It is likely a long and difficult road ahead for them and they would never ask for help on their own. If you are able, please donate to Briana's fund to help ease the burden of such a heartbreaking condition and to allow Jess and Chris the time and energy to focus on their daughter's health and recovery.
Please note:
This page will be updated as things progress. We kindly ask you to check back here often for health updates rather than overwhelming the family with questions. Of course, direct messages of encouragement and support are always welcome.
Thank you in advance for your donation and for helping us spread the word!
What happened?
On 1/20/21, the Speese/McArthur Family's lives were turned upside down with the discovery of a tumor in Briana's abdomen after her pediatrician noticed a lump on her stomach. After undergoing an MRI at Lehigh Valley Children's Hospital on the 21st, the doctors believe Briana has neuroblastoma. This is a cancer that develops from immature nerve cells and typically affects children under the age of five. Unfortunately, the cancer has also spread to her spine and pelvis. Currently, the tumor is not causing any pain or discomfort.
What's next?
Thankfully, Briana was able to come home from the hospital for the weekend. Jess and Chris have decided to transfer Briana's care to CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia). LVCH was going to conduct a biopsy to confirm if it is indeed a neuroblastoma and to determine the stage of the tumor. A port was going to be put in for blood draws and to administer chemo and other medications. Lastly, they planned to retrieve bone marrow samples. Briana's first appointment at CHOP is on Monday 1/25. It could take up to two weeks for an official diagnosis and then a treatment plan will be made.
Typical treatments for neuroblastomas include surgery, chemo, and radiation dependent upon on the location and stage of the tumor.
How can you help?
Aside from the medical bills that will quickly pile up, Chris and Jess will be commuting to and from the hospital or finding local lodging on a regular, if not daily, basis. They'll be spending a ton of money on gas, food, parking, and hotels so they can remain close to their daughter. Aside from all of the expenses related to Briana's treatment, Chris and Jess still need to worry about their regular bills - mortgage, electric, car, phone, etc...
Jess, Chris, Briana, and Jordyn are facing a whole new world of unknowns and uncertainty. It is likely a long and difficult road ahead for them and they would never ask for help on their own. If you are able, please donate to Briana's fund to help ease the burden of such a heartbreaking condition and to allow Jess and Chris the time and energy to focus on their daughter's health and recovery.
Please note:
This page will be updated as things progress. We kindly ask you to check back here often for health updates rather than overwhelming the family with questions. Of course, direct messages of encouragement and support are always welcome.
Thank you in advance for your donation and for helping us spread the word!
Fundraising team (3)
Natalie Speese
Organizer
Pottstown, PA
Jessica McArthur
Beneficiary
Scott Speese
Team member