Urgent: 8-Year-Old Luiza’s Brain Tumor Diagnosis Shakes Family

UPDATE: A shocking diagnosis has turned the life of an Irish family upside down. Eight-year-old Luiza Zaboto was diagnosed with a medulloblastoma brain tumor after a series of alarming symptoms, including vomiting and balance issues.

Just two years ago, Luiza’s mother, Regiane Zaboto, initially dismissed her daughter’s symptoms, thinking it was merely a summer bug. However, as Luiza continued to suffer from unexplained vomiting and unusual eye movements, the family sought help from medical professionals.

On a recent visit to the University Hospital Limerick, doctors conducted tests that revealed inflammation on Luiza’s optic nerve, leading to an urgent MRI scan. It was then that the family faced the heart-wrenching news: Luiza had a brain tumor. Regiane described the moment as surreal, stating, “When they said it was a tumor, I went blank. I couldn’t talk, cry, or do anything.”

The family was swiftly transferred to Temple Street Children’s Hospital for further treatment. Here, Luiza underwent a six-hour surgery to remove the tumor and alleviate pressure in her brain. Regiane recalled the moment, saying, “The call came. We were told she was in recovery; we could see her. Everything went great; the surgery was a success.”

Following surgery, Luiza began a rigorous treatment plan that included six weeks in Manchester for proton beam therapy, which uses high-energy protons targeted at the tumor, and chemotherapy scheduled from November 2023 to August 2024. Regiane emphasized the emotional toll of the situation, sharing, “Every MRI is hard for us. But we’re very optimistic.”

Currently, Luiza is thriving. Regiane reports, “She’s an active, smart little girl who does Irish dancing, gymnastics, and swimming. We feel blessed.” However, the family remains vigilant about her health, particularly her balance, which was affected by the tumor’s location.

According to recent statistics, approximately 65 children and young people are diagnosed with a brain or central nervous system tumor annually in Ireland. Experts like John Caird, a pediatric neurosurgeon, stress the importance of timely diagnosis, urging parents and doctors to recognize the subtle signs of brain tumors, which can often be mistaken for more benign conditions.

Caird warned, “If a child presents with symptoms that aren’t settling down and prompt repeated visits to the doctor, the possibility of a brain tumor must be considered.” Symptoms may include persistent headaches, seizures, and even visual disturbances.

Dr. Jane Pears, a consultant pediatric oncologist, echoed these concerns, urging parents to be proactive in discussing symptoms with their doctors. “Don’t hesitate to ask, ‘Can you reassure me this isn’t a brain tumor?’” she advised.

As Luiza continues her recovery, her story serves as a crucial reminder of the urgent need for awareness surrounding childhood brain tumors. The family hopes their experience will encourage other parents to seek immediate medical attention when faced with unexplained symptoms in their children.

Stay tuned for further updates on Luiza’s journey and ongoing treatment.