Vivian Collver

In early June, Vivian seemed to have some tummy troubles. She was a little grouchy, not eating as well, and was constipated. After the advice from her doctor, Kari and Charles tried a few different remedies and even with the high fiber, homemade cookies from Auntie B, Vivi found no relief. Parent intuition told Kari and Charles something more was going on. Even with the risk of COVID exposure they insisted on a physical examination and more testing. On a Sunday evening Vivian had X-Rays which showed a mass that was labeled “inconclusive“. An urgent CT was ordered that evening, so they were sent rushing over to Kaiser Medical Center Oakland. for further testing. The Collvers went in for a fairly routine check-up for their sweet 22-month-old and their world was turned upside down from the results.


The CT results revealed two masses, one in the abdomen which was the original growth and a smaller mass in her neck because the abdominal growth had metastasized. At this point Kari and Charles were told that Vivian would be admitted and to be prepared for furthering testing. The following day they met with a great team of care providers and were told that though they would need to confirm, they were nearly 100% certain Vivian had Neuroblastoma. A biopsy was performed on the mass as well as her bone marrow. A central line was also put in place.
 

Confirmation from the biopsy gave Vivian the diagnosis of Neuroblastoma, a solid cancerous tumor. It begins in the nerve cells outside the brain of infants and young children. The oncologists believe that the origin of her tumor is from her adrenal gland on the left side of her abdomen. Neuroblastoma can develop in any area of the body where new nerve cells develop. The size and location of the mass is causing secondary complications. It is pressing against her lungs, stomach and other organs, causing her to need to be on oxygen, a feeding tube and pain management.


The current treatment plan is 5 days of chemotherapy, 3 weeks off and then another round for 5 days. We are hoping the tumor will shrink enough to allow for the surgical removal of the mass. Vivian has already completed her first round of 5-day chemotherapy treatment. 


Vivi has been such a strong girl and has shown such a fighting spirit. Through her smiles and determination, she has touched the hearts of everyone around her. The medical staff has been so supportive and encouraging. We are grateful for their care and experience.
 

As Vivian’s condition is ever changing, Kari and Charles have been spending their nights and days with her in Oakland. Riley, Everett, Nolan and Caleb are anxious to see their baby sister and miss her dearly. 
 
If you can donate anything to help the Collvers, it will go a long way on the bumpy road ahead. There a lot of unknowns, heartache and pain and it is our hope to provide Kari and Charles with all the support we can. Please keep Vivi in your thoughts and prayers.