Nothing could have prepared Dave and Mindy for the devastating news that their 3-year-old daughter, Audrey, would require emergency surgery due to a brainstem tumor. From what was supposed to be a simple MRI to the worst-case scenario, Dave and Mindy suddenly found themselves struggling with an agonizing decision to make. They knew they needed expert care and turned to George Jallo, M.D., at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital for a chance to save Audrey.
In August 2022, Audrey was your typical, playful 3-year-old who loved dogs, watching Paw Patrol, and spending time with her family. Over the course of six months, she started experiencing random episodes of vomiting which gradually became more frequent. In March 2023, Audrey was scheduled for a brain MRI as part of a series of diagnostic tests to find the cause of her symptoms. The procedure was scheduled as a precaution and it was not expected to be the root cause. Unfortunately, the MRI revealed a tumor on Audrey’s brainstem.
Audrey’s mom, Mindy, sought advice from a former medical colleague by sending an image of Audrey’s brain MRI scan via text. The text would eventually make its way to George Jallo, M.D., vice dean and physician-in-chief at Johns Hopkins All Children’s. Dr. Jallo was recommended for his extensive experience in pediatric neurosurgery and specialization in tumors of the brain and spinal cord. Dr. Jallo was honored to operate on Audrey and agreed to do the surgery.
Treating the Whole Family
From the moment, Dave, Mindy, and Audrey were picked up by the "Lifeline" Critical Care Team, they experienced a level of compassionate care that brought peace of mind to a chaotic situation. “Someone took an iPad out and put on Paw Patrol for Audrey and she stopped crying,” Dave says.
Upon arrival at Johns Hopkins All Children’s, the family was greeted by staff who were ready to go above and beyond to tend to their every need—being sure not to cause undue stress. The Department of Patient and Family Centered Care provided comfort to the family when they needed it most. Facility dog Brea was by Audrey’s side as she was being prepped for surgery. “Brea comes in, and I see her smile for the first time in days,” Dave says.
Dave recalls his conversation with Dr. Jallo before Audrey’s surgery. He was so impressed with Dr. Jallo’s knowledge and how he exuded a level of confidence that was reassuring. “This is what he does all the time. If anyone is going to do this and have a successful outcome, it is going to be him,” Dave explained.
Before entering the operating room, Dave and Mindy showered Audrey with love. It was a very emotional moment for everyone, and it was at that time Mindy took Dave’s hand to pray. “We bowed our heads over Audrey and started saying the Hail Mary. After saying two words, every single person joined in, word-for-word, while we were praying the Hail Mary,” Dave says. Dave and Mindy knew Audrey was in good hands. “At Johns Hopkins All Children’s, they were with us throughout this experience. I cannot describe how important that level of connection is,” Dave says.
After several hours of surgery, Dr. Jallo came back to the waiting area to give Dave and Mindy an update on Audrey’s condition. Dave and Mindy were uncertain about what to expect and prepared themselves as best they could for the news. “She did great. We were able to remove all of the tumor and our lab results indicated that the tumor was benign,” Jallo says. Overwhelmed with joy, Dave and Mindy began to cry. It was a blessing to hear that the surgery was successful and that the tumor was benign. More importantly, Audrey was alive and well. They felt eternally grateful to Dr. Jallo, his team, and Johns Hopkins All Children’s for saving Audrey’s life. Audrey experienced a quick recovery and is now living the life of a healthy, happy four-year-old.
With a Grateful Heart
After their experience, Dave and Mindy became advocates for Johns Hopkins All Children’s and wanted to do what they could to support the hospital and its mission. Mindy has joined the hospital staff and Dave joined the Seminar Committee. Dave is an Estate Planning Attorney and wanted to share Audrey’s story to inspire clients to leave a planned gift for the hospital. They understand the impact that a gift could have on a child, their family, and beyond. “I cannot think of a more powerful way to share your wealth and to help give the gift of life,” Dave says.
Learn how you can make a difference for kids like Audrey: [email protected] | 727-767-4199 Legal Name: Johns Hopkins All Children’s Foundation, Inc. | Tax I.D.: 59-2481738