We’re sharing an update and asking for support for Curtlyn and Awsten. Curtlyn will travel to Atlanta for care at Emory and the Winship Cancer Institute, with a family member by her side.

Up until now, we’ve had some encouraging news: Curtlyn’s most recent PET scan was completely negative for cancer in her breast or liver, which is where this initially started. However, we later learned the PET scan was only performed from the neck down, so it did not include her brain. That means we don’t know when the brain lesions first appeared. Her brain MRI in August was clear, but her most recent MRI was not.

The radiology review confirmed approximately 40 lesions on Curtlyn’s brain, and the recommendation is whole brain radiation. She will complete 10 radiation treatments on consecutive days starting Thursday 2/5 and continuing through 2/18 (possibly 2/19). She will also take an oral medication called Memantine in conjunction with radiation, and that medication will continue for six months. About a month after radiation ends, she will have a follow-up MRI. If any lesions remain, the plan is to do pinpointed radiation on those spots.

Right now, the hospital social worker is looking into discounted lodging for Curtlyn and one caregiver for the entire treatment period. We’ve been told quality of life is expected to be fairly good after treatment, and she should start feeling more like herself about a month after treatment ends.

A few people have reached out asking how to help with travel, food, and other expenses during this stretch in Atlanta. We are by no means asking out of expectation, especially after how generous so many of you were during the last fundraiser, but we’re sharing this for anyone who wants to help. Donations will go toward lodging, travel, meals, and the practical costs that come with being away from home for daily treatment. We will continue to share updates as we’re able.