We had landed back in the hospital on the 30th due to concerning symptoms that indicated a potential infection post shunt placement, and we've been navigating that since admission. While there was nothing that grew when the VP shunt and CSF cultures were taken, all symptoms, scans, and other lab work pointed to an infection. So labs were sent elsewhere to test for the DNA left behind by bacteria, and the DNA from cutibacterium acnes was found in his CSF. This has been being treated and symptoms have resolved, but it's a tricky slope when you have a shunt in place as the bacteria can't always be eradicated from the shunt tubing and hardware, and that's when it has to be removed. Given the inflammation present after three brain surgeries to address the severe obstructive hydrocephalus, it was not advised to proceed with shunt removal at this time, and instead we are treating it and monitoring very closely. There is always the possibility that the bacteria has not been dealt with appropriately and the shunt will have to be removed, so we need to be prepared for that. 

His official diagnosis is CNS WHO Grade 4 Germinoma. A germinoma is a germ cell tumor, a central nervous system germinoma is one that occurs in the brain, and his is located in his pineal gland. Pineal tumors account for approximately 3% of all pediatric brain tumors. We have begun treatment, and it has been a rather rough four days of that. 

We are formulating a terrific team here in AZ, as we know how crucial supportive (naturopathic/integrative) care is during and after treatment. Fundraising will help us provide Gabe with all the care and tools he needs to heal and thrive. I want to take a moment to express our appreciation for all the support we've received over the past nearly four weeks. To all those who have donated to his care, have sent well wishes, have provided us with food, help with our other four children, emotional support, a literal shoulder to cry on: we truly cannot say thank you enough, we are immensely grateful.