THE uncle of an nine-year-old Donegal girl undergoing life-saving treatment in America for a brain tumour has said her family need help more than ever.
Caitlin Strain was diagnosed with a brain tumour in Letterkenny University Hospital on February 18 last year, just three days before her birthday which she celebrated in Temple Street Children’s Hospital surrounded by close family. Three days later, Caitlin underwent the first of three surgeries to attempt to remove the tumour.
Caitlin is the daughter of Thomas and Eimear Strain. The family live in Burnfoot, although Eimear (née Gibson) is originally from Raphoe.
After a six-week admission to Temple Street Hospital, Caitlin and her family travelled to Essen in Germany, where Caitlin received six weeks of Proton Radiotherapy and returned home at the end of May, 2021. Three months later, Caitlin commenced nine months of Chemotherapy in Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, in Dublin.
Following a four-month break, an MRI scan was arranged, which revealed devastating news. Her parents subsequently sought help from America, and Caitlin travelled to Houston, Texas, where she began treatment on August 31.
Caitlin’s uncle, Fabien Gibson, is among a number of family members behind a GoFundMe page to help raise the funds needed. He said Caitlin is “tolerating treatment and is in good spirits”.
Siblings
He said: “Caitlin is the most beautiful, kind-hearted and caring child. She loves music, animals and especially the family dog, Bella. She mostly loves being around people, especially her family and friends. Caitlin is the second youngest of five children and has one brother and three sisters.”
Mr Gibson said medical treatment in America comes at a cost.
“We are asking everyone for help; please help in any way you can by donating, arranging fundraising events, assisting with events, sharing and promoting.
“People are so good; through your prayers, efforts, and donations, we have got this far, and we cannot describe how helpful this has been for Caitlin and her family.
Please donate and share; all help is welcomed and appreciated. We want to encourage everyone, individuals, groups, colleagues, clubs, schools, community groups and businesses to assist with fundraising in any way they can.
“Please continue to keep Caitlín and her family in your prayers.”
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