Support Annalise's Fight Against Brain Tumor

Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers, we are reaching out to you with heavy hearts and hopeful spirits, seeking your support for our beloved Annalise. A sweet and energetic 7-year-old, she recently received a devastating diagnosis: a brain tumor.

Annalise is a strong, happy, vibrant, busy little girl, so after experiencing some random dizzy spells and headaches and after addressing the usual suspects (diet, eye exam, etc.), she had an MRI. The MRI scans show there is a tumor in the fourth ventricle of her brain, between the cerebellum and brain stem.

After consulting several doctors, Kester and Jana decided to proceed with Annalise's care at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) under the expertise of Dr. Mark Souweidane, Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery. We feel incredibly fortunate to have access to such a renowned institution and team for her treatment. Annalise will be in the best possible hands in the fields of pediatric neurology and oncology.

Annalise told Jana to: “tell everyone I am fineee. I am going to be ok. I’m just going to have brain surgery.”

We don't know yet whether the tumor is benign or malignant, but so far all signs have been encouraging for a positive outcome. After discussing with the doctor and his team, her surgery was scheduled for Thursday, August 8th.

In the meantime, Annalise has been able to enjoy her regular summertime swimming, playing and dancing. We are very glad for that. Of course for the adults, August 8th is fast approaching… She will be in the hospital for a week following surgery and we were told to expect a 6-8 week recovery time following that.

Annalise had a concern and asked at the hospital “How are my family and friends going to all be able to fit in my room at the hospital after my surgery?” She definitely feels the love and prayers and just assumes you will be there with her. ❤️

Many have reached out offering condolences and support for Jana and Kester. It is incredibly appreciated! They are guiding Annalise through this challenge, and at the same time continuing to maintain family life and all of their other commitments among the community. In many cases though it is hard for others to know how to help. Too much attention can be overwhelming as well. So we set up this fundraiser for Jana and Kester so that anyone who wants to help can, in a very tangible way, lend their support to Annalise and the family.

The goal of this fundraiser is the cost of the initial surgery; $7000 out of pocket. However, there is also an untold emotional and financial cost supporting Annalise and the rest of the family during this trying time. The funds will support Annalise and her family with medical bills, treatment, and any additional support her family needs. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference in Annalise's fight.

We also ask for your thoughts and prayers to surround Annalise as she bravely battles this illness.

Thank you for considering a donation to support our beloved Annalise.

P.S. Kester and Jana have asked for any inquiries to be funneled through Jana's mom, Ann Iparraguirre. If you don't have her contact you can also post to this Go FundMe campaign and we'll respond as soon as possible.