Craniopharyngioma

On May 3, 2007, I played in one of my softball games making a double play to end the game. The next day, I was scheduled to have a cat scan because I was having really bad headaches. Dr. Ramsey, at Dothan Pediatrics, ordered the test at Flowers Hospital just to make sure nothing was wrong. The test was at 11:30 a.m. and by 8:30 p.m. that night of May 4, 2007 my mama, my Aunt and me were checking into Children's Hospital. I had been diagnosed with a Craniopharyngioma, a type of brain tumor very common in children. It was partially removed on May 8, 2007 along with my pituitary gland. I was scared but my family and my faith in God saw me through this time in my life. I would like to thank everyone at Children’s and my family and friends for everything they have done for me. I play soccer and will continue to play. I am on the road to a full recovery and I thank God for every moment I have here on earth. At 10 years old, I have gone through a lot, but I appreciate life so much more than I use to. I have to return to Children's every six months for a check up. I have three medicines I have to take every day for the rest of my life. But that is OK, because we all have to do something everyday of our lives and I have worked the meds into my lifestyle. God bless everyone and thank you again for saving my life. Peri L. Chapman

My Mama says that Children's Hospital is the best hospital with the best doctors and nurses in the whole world. She calls them angels that work there. They are all so nice and treat us with the most respect and care so much for everyone there. I think they are all AWESOME and totally ROCK!!!!