ABSTRACT
Karla’s family planned a wonderful celebration for her 13th birthday, a day 5 years ago they feared they would never see. They would celebrate with Karla’s 15-year-old brother Will, a protective big brother who doted on Karla, and her 7-year-old brother, Jason. In turn, Karla loved to care for her younger brother, too. Karla had been a healthy newborn and a bright, spirited, affable, and independent child until she was diagnosed with a brain tumor 5 years ago, at age 8. The diagnosis of cancer had been difficult for her entire family, but today, as they prepare for her 13th birthday celebration, they are feeling optimistic about her future.
