A few words from Mika
Qulyssia Elizabeth Rose Alkire is a bright, intelligent and feisty two (2) year old. Sadly she started experiencing imbalance and weakness in her legs preventing her from walking. On January 25, 2022 she was seen by her primary care provider in Bismarck, ND and upon examination she was immediately referred to a pediatric neurologist located in Fargo, ND where she underwent a CT scan that discovered that Qulyssia had a brain tumor. On January 26, 2022 Qulyssia was referred to a Pediatric Neurosurgeon at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN . On January 27, 2022 Qulyssia was prepped to undergo brain surgery to remove the tumor. Her parents were informed by her doctors that due to her age and size that there could potentially be many complications resulting in permanent deficits. January 28, 2022 Qulyssia underwent a 6 hour brain surgery that successfully removed the tumor. The doctors briefed the parents once Qulyssia was out of surgery to inform them that the tumor was cancerous. The weekend was long and hard to watch Qulyssia recover. On Monday, January 31, 2022 the parents received her diagnosis from pathology; Qulyssia has a rare and aggressive form of cancer called ATRT. The doctors informed the parent’s of the devasting news that Qulyssia has a 10% survival rate of 2 years. Currently Qulyssia is in-patient rehabilitation to regain her strength before enduring a series of cancer treatments. We are anticipating the treatments will be aggressive starting with chemotherapy on Monday, February 14th. All of the doctors involved in Qulyssia’s care have been such a blessing and we are so thankful for all the prayers she is receiving. We are aware of the long and difficult road ahead and appreciate the outreach of support. Donations received will go towards medical, housing and travel expenses to assist in Qulyssia’s treatment and recovery.