Michael Strahan’s Daughter Diagnosed with Rare Brain Cancer
Good Morning America anchor and former NFL player, Michael Strahan, revealed on the show that his teenage daughter, Isabella Strahan, was recently diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. Isabella, a 19-year-old student at the University of Southern California, decided to share her story with GMA’s Robin Roberts.
Isabella’s Journey
In September, Isabella started experiencing extreme headaches, nausea, and difficulty walking straight. Initially, she thought it was vertigo. However, in late October, she began vomiting blood, which prompted her to seek medical attention. An MRI revealed a fast-growing brain tumor larger than a golf ball. The next day, Isabella underwent emergency surgery to have the tumor removed.
Treatment and Recovery
After the surgery, Isabella completed 30 sessions of radiation and will begin chemotherapy at Duke University in February. She spent a month in rehabilitation to regain her ability to walk. Despite the challenges, Isabella remains positive and excited for the treatment process to conclude.
Sharing Her Journey
Isabella has started a YouTube channel to document her journey through vlogs, with proceeds from the content going to Duke’s Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center. She aims to be a source of inspiration for others going through similar experiences.
Changing Perspectives and the Importance of Support
Michael Strahan expressed how this experience has changed his perspective on life and emphasized the importance of support. Isabella also shared her gratitude for the ability to walk and interact with friends, highlighting the impact of limitations.
Despite the challenges, Michael Strahan remains optimistic, stating that he is the luckiest man in the world to have an amazing daughter like Isabella. He expressed his reliance on her and the fear of not knowing what he would do without her.
Looking Ahead
Isabella is eager to return to California and continue her college education once her treatment is complete.