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A 6-year-old Lindenhurst girl diagnosed with a life-threatening tumor is undergoing treatment in New York City as her family receives a huge outpouring of support through a GoFundMe campaign that has raised more than $160,000.
Éowyn, daughter of Gina and Dominick Toscano, a special education teacher in New York City schools, has been undergoing treatment since she was diagnosed in the spring with medulloblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain tumor.
To help cover mounting medical expenses, her parents launched the fundraiser, which has drawn more than 1,500 contributions from friends, family and other supporters across Long Island and beyond.
In an encouraging update posted this month, the Toscanos shared that Éowyn has nearly fully healed from brain surgery and is now undergoing a 30-day course of radiation at the New York Proton Center in Harlem. Her care team recently identified the tumor as highly treatable and adjusted the plan to include lower doses of radiation and chemotherapy than originally expected, the couple said.
“Recently, our world was turned upside down when our beautiful Éowyn was diagnosed with a form of cancer,” the Toscanos wrote in the original campaign post. “This news has been incredibly difficult to process, and we are doing everything we can to support her through this journey.”
The Toscanos describe Éowyn as “a joyful, creative, funny and loving child who brightens the lives of everyone she meets.” They said she has “a magical ability to bring people together and inspire kindness and love wherever she goes.” She has a little brother name Jace.
In the Toscanos’ latest message on July 1, they shared: “We had some great news come to us about the specific type of tumor and are glad to say it is highly treatable with a great outlook! They have even recommended a safer treatment schedule including lower doses of both radiation and chemotherapy than what was originally planned.”
“Thank you again for all you have shared with us!” the Toscanos continued. “The love and support has been incredible and we are forever grateful!”
The Toscanos’ next-door neighbor Michele Vazquez noted how the family is going through an unimaginable ordeal.
“Éowyn & her family are our next door neighbors, and some of the nicest people we have ever met,” she said on Facebook. “We love you Éowyn & we will be here for you guys every step of the way!”
The Toscanos noted how inspired they are by their daughter’s strength and perseverance.
“Éowyn is our hero. A real-life warrior in a tiara — brave, beautiful, and full of light,” they said. “She has shown us what true courage looks like.”
Top photos: GoFundMe
