THE family of a six-year-old girl who is now in remission from a rare type of cancer have shared their delight after receiving “the news we’ve all been waiting for”.
Last September, the Advertiser reported on a unicorn-themed fundraising party in Arrochar organised by Karen Fraser, whose little cousin Corran Ballantyne was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2019.
More than £42,000 was raised through an online GoFundMe page for Corran – who lives in Fraserburgh with parents Paul and Rona and brother Rohan – including more than £4,500 from the event at Ben Arthur’s Bothy.
Karen, who works at the village pub, posted an update last week confirming that Corran had been given the all clear for now.
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The social media statement said: “The final stage of UK protocol treatment, immunotherapy, has been fully completed. Corran has done so well and been very brave throughout.
“We have also had all her latest scans and tests reviewed and I am pleased to let you all know that these have shown Corran to be NED (No Evidence of Disease).
“This is the best possible outcome we could have, and we have been taking a little time to adjust to what will be our new normal.
“We still have a couple of appointments and procedures to complete but are officially classed as out of treatment and in remission.
“We will still be regularly attending hospital over the next few years to keep an eye on things.
“We know that unfortunately neuroblastoma, as well as being particularly aggressive, also has an extremely high chance of relapse. This leaves us in a difficult position deciding where to go next.
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“As far as UK treatment goes, we have completed. However, there is treatment available in America that will significantly reduce the likelihood of relapse.
“This is trial of a DFMO treatment that is given over two years. However, as this is American treatment only, this does come at a significantly high cost to all involved.
“It is a very difficult decision to make as a family, as obviously we want to ensure Corran has the best possible chance of a full, long and healthy future, but also do not want to make her endure any unnecessary treatment.”
Karen said Corran was delighted to be at school and is dreaming of going swimming after getting the good news, while the family thanked those who had supported their journey.
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