the hospital

Long story short . . .

Cali's "hemangioma" was growing incessantly. It was so large, hard and tight that it was causing her extreme pain. When the doctor saw her photos (emailed) he wanted to see her the next morning (Sunday) in his office. Once there, he sent us straight to the children's hospital.

Over the next few days Cali received an IV, blood work, an MRI [scan of her face], and a biopsy [small sample of tissue surgically removed]. They also started her on some heavy duty meds.

We will learn the results from the biopsy tomorrow--so more info to come--but their latest diagnosis was that it is not an hemangioma but a rare lymphangioma. It is not a growth of tissue or blood but a mischanneling of her lympahtic vessels. The fluid instead collects in her face. During the biopsy the surgeon drained the fluid, thus releasing the pressure and Cali's pain. But, as it will soon fill again, a large area will need to be surgically removed and she may need radiation therapy.

Again, this prognosis is all assuming that it has to do with her lymphnodes. More to come.

It's definitely been scary and sad. But Cali's been a trooper, and we have received great care from the doctors and nurses. We are thankful the Cali will no longer need steroids or chemotherapy.

Thank you for your love and concern on our behalf. Below are Cali's pictures as the growth continued and at the hospital.


The night before she was admitted to the hospital. If you can believe it, the thing grew even bigger the next day.



Pre-surgery in her hospital gown









The fluid drained