Welcome to Matthew's Web Page.

On January 11, 2001, at the age of seven, our son Matthew was diagnosed with a diffuse pontine brainstem glioma—a very aggressive tumor.

On February 5, 2001 Matthew underwent a seven-hour surgery during which the neurosurgeon was able to safely remove over half of Matthew's tumor. A few days after surgery we were told the final pathology report revealed Matthew had the lowest grade tumor possible—a pilocytic astrocytoma. With tears in his eyes, the doctor told us Matthew could plan on celebrating many birthdays to come.

On June 21, 2005 Matthew underwent his second brain surgery to remove recurrent tumor. The operation was performed at Johns Hopkins by Dr. Ben Carson.

On October 25, 2005 Matthew underwent his third brain surgery to drain a cyst and remove more of his tumor. At this time, Matthew had an Ommaya reservoir installed.

December 20, 2005 Matthew had his fourth brain surgery to reposition the reservoir and drain the cyst.





Matthew's Miles, a fundraiser for brain tumor research, was a great success, raising over $75,000 for brain tumor research. You can read more about the walk and other brain tumor survivors and angels at Matthew's Miles

Journal

Friday, August 1, 2008 8:06 PM CDT

Our walk is scheduled for SAT., OCT 18!

Links:

E-mail Author: andrea@passarella.com

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Note: The foregoing information was authored by the patient, parent or guardian, or other parties who are solely responsible for the content. Such announcements or their content are not necessarily endorsed by CaringBridge, Inc. or any sponsoring agent.  This information does not confirm that anyone is or was actually a patient at any facility.