Gabrielle Horbsby
Gabrielle’s family moved from Panama City to Jacksonville. Why? They wanted the care needed to save their daughter’s life.
In October of 2005 Gabrielle was diagnosed with optic glioma, a rare disorder where tumors grow on the optic nerves. It was a very dangerous situation.
Gabrielle underwent surgery to remove the cancer, and chemotherapy treatments for 1 year. Unfortunately that was not the end of the journey for Gabrielle. She started to show symptoms again and one year later the tumors had returned.
Dr. Aldana from Wolfson Children’s Hospital went in to perform a second surgery. Being a very difficult surgery, Dr. Aldana was hoping to remove 50% of the mass. After the surgery, Gabrielle’s family would learn that he was able to remove 90%.
Gabrielle underwent chemo again, but despite all efforts, the tumor returned. This time Gabrielle’s doctors recommenced she undergo Proton Beam Therapy at the then-new facility at UF.
The treatment was a success, but the battle had taken it’s toll. Gabrielle lost her vision, her sensitivity (preventing her from reading Braille) and suffered two strokes (causing physical impairments). Gabrielle currently undergoes physical and speech therapy at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Gabrielle’s family is thankful for the efforts that have kept her alive.
They are most thankful for how well the staff was there not just for Gabrielle, but for them as well. Watching their little angel feel helpless was a world of stress. The doctors, nurses and staff made it a point to stay positive, confident and provide any support possible.
