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Abby's Journey began April 12, 2006, when she was admitted to Childrens Hospital in Minneapolis, diagnosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma, N-MYC amplified, unfavorable histology. She reached official NED status on Sept. 18, 2006 (on her 5th birthday). Her next round of tests will be Aug 2012.
Abby has had 6 rounds of induction chemo, surgery in New York with Dr. LaQuaglia, consolidation chemo and her stem cell transplant Sept. 28, 14 rounds of radiation/7 days, 4 rounds of 3F8s, and Accutane. She developed a HAMA shortly after the 4th round of 3F8s (April, 2007). She was diagnosed with Shingles on June 30, 2007. She is still NED after her tests/scans in July, 2007. She also had her port removed at this time. She is still NED after her tests/scans in Oct, 2007. She is still NED after her tests/scans in Jan, 2008. She is still NED after her tests/scans in April, 2008. She is still NED after her tests/scans in July, 2008. She is still NED after her tests/scans in Oct, 2008 (We started at St. Jude's). She is still NED after her tests/scans in Jan, 2009. She is still NED after her tests/scans in July, 2009. She was taken off her last medication at this time. She is still NED after her tests/scans in Jan, 2010. This was her last bone marrow procedure. She is still NED after her tests/scans in July, 2011. This was her last NIBG scan. Abby had surgery end of Feb 2012 for a partial intestinal blockage, due to scar tissue adhesions, and radiation. She has accepted all that's been done to her with grace and humor and we are very proud. We are an eternally optimistic family and with your love and help, Abby will prevail.
Abby is a very happy and energetic girl. She loves animals. She has a dog and 4fish, and very badly wants kittens. She loves sports: skiing, volleyball, swimming (her favorite at the moment). She loves playing the piano, and participating in her school musicals. She truly sees the silver lining in any situation and has taught us to live life to the fullest, and enjoy today!