Girl, 4, Fights Aggressive Brain Tumor After Misdiagnosis

A four-year-old girl named Franki Olney is now attending primary school, a milestone her parents once feared she would not reach. This achievement comes after she fought for her life against a 5cm aggressive brain tumor. The tumor was initially misdiagnosed as common viruses and a urinary tract infection (UTI), leading to weeks of uncertainty for her parents. Franki experienced severe symptoms including vomiting, headaches, weight loss, and behavioral changes, but medical staff repeatedly reassured her family that it was likely an infection. Her condition worsened, impacting her ability to walk and causing severe pain. A CT scan finally revealed a grade 3 ependymoma tumor at the back of her head. She was immediately transferred to Great Ormond Street Hospital for surgery to remove the tumor. Post-surgery, Franki developed posterior fossa syndrome, affecting her speech and balance. She then underwent six weeks of proton beam radiotherapy, facing complications like a PICC line infection and needing a feeding tube. Despite the ordeal, a recent scan showed no evidence of cancer. Franki will require regular monitoring for recurrence and potential long-term effects of her treatment, such as hormonal, visual, or auditory issues. Her family is celebrating her resilience as she navigates the challenges of starting school, including noise sensitivity.