I am an oncology nurse that takes care of adults. I had my first child close to 2 years ago. I am lucky, I see what my patients go through on a daily basis and I have a healthy child. It is a natural instinct for me to help others. The kids we will be running for should never have to deal with the challenges they face, yet they are resilient and stronger than most people. Whatever I can do to help I am all in!! I was introduced to the challenge last year when my brother completed it. I knew the minute I walked into that stadium that I wanted to be part of the amazing group of people!
About Team Penelope
Penny was our smiley, talkative baby with contagious joy. After her second birthday, we started to notice heightened clumsiness, delayed milestones, and personality changes. We suspected something was wrong and started searching for answers.
She was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea with suspected inner ear issues. During her tonsillectomy the surgeon found her ears to be pristine and had no explanation for her off-balance. Penny’s symptoms heightened with sporadic headaches and vomiting. After personal research, and clean ears, we started to suspect a tumor and began pursuing neurology.On June 21, ten days post tonsillectomy, Penny had such alarming symptoms we rushed her to the ER and demanded a CT scan. We discovered Penny did in fact have a very large tumor in her cerebellum and massive fluid buildup surrounding her brain. She was transported to Cleveland Clinic where she received an 18 hour brain surgery and spent a month recovering with rehab. Just 3 weeks later, we left to adopt her little brother in India.
Penny still attends weekly therapy where she works on strength, coordination, and confidence. Although the brain damage caused by the tumor may never reverse, Penny has continued to make miraculous progress. These days she loves all things princesses, but also loves playing superhero with her brothers.Penny Lou will always be our brave girl. Her bravery was inspirational through her surgeries and learning to walk again in therapy. She continues to be brave through appointments and MRIs every 3 months. We continue to sing praises for the way we’ve seen God write our brave Penny Lou’s story.
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Jill and Bryan Wesolowski 6 months ago |
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Mom 6 months ago Love you! |
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Lee Anna Shetina 7 months ago In memory of Roger Blum |
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Hermsen Family 8 months ago We are so proud of you, dear friend!! What a wonderful cause and awesome experience. |
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Amanda Collins 9 months ago You got this! What a great cause :) |
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Sheila 9 months ago Love you and love how you care so much for all. |
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Ryan and Reea 9 months ago Way to go Nancy! You know we’re always in your corner 🤙🏼 GOOD LUCK! |
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Judi Zangare 9 months ago You are amazing , Nancy ! You got this !! Such a worthy cause to fight for ♥️ |
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Laura Mroczka 9 months ago You are an amazing Nurse and Mom! What an inspiring challenge to take for a great cause. Good luck! |
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The Crissinger Family 9 months ago You BOTH got this!! Go Penny!! Go Nancy!!! |
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