Andres

Andres was diagnosed on Easter Sunday 2023 after experiencing severe vomiting. The same day, he underwent emergency surgery to address severe hydrocephalus. On the following Tuesday, he underwent a 10-hour brain surgery to remove 50% of the tumor.

Andres was hospitalized for two months, during which he received two cycles of chemotherapy, was only able to eat via an NG tube, and had to relearn basic skills like crawling, walking, talking, and eating. He then underwent a six-week proton radiation treatment from July to August 2023.

After radiation, Andres received three more cycles of chemotherapy, which significantly impacted his health and had him in and out of ICU and hospitalized for 2 months from October to December 2023.

He was finally discharged in December and spent the holidays at home with his family.

Beginning January 2024, Andres followed an at-home treatment regimen of several medications including two oral chemotherapy and weekly hospital follow-ups. He is currently doing well and tolerating his medications.

Andres is undergoing therapy to regain his strength and mobility. The last chemotherapy cycle left him weak with partial facial paralysis on his left side and unable to crawl, walk, or stand independently. However, he's getting closer and closer to his goals.

Recently we have had new bumps in our journey. Due to his left vocal cord paralysis, Andres is silently aspirating on fluids, and requires 100% hydration through an NG tube. Additionally, the brain tumor is compressing his optic nerve, causing his left eye to not lubricate. This led to a massive corneal ulcer, which requires a procedure to stabilize. Surgery is currently not an option due to his medication regimen. The goal is to wait until 2025 when he hopefully completes his cancer treatment.

His last two MRIs have been stable, which is the goal right now.