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ABOUT DINA Dina is a typical 15 year old High School freshman. She loves horses, music, art and outdoors. At the age of 6 months, however, Dina was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type I, a genetic condition which has resulted in the child developing café-au-lait spots on parts of her body, learning disabilities, other mild physical defects, as well as tumors. A large percent of these growths are benign, fortunately and only cause concerns because of where they grow. However, a percentage of them become cancerous.
In 2004, a growth was detected on Dina’s tongue. Sometime later, an MRI revealed a large plexiform tumor that started on her tongue, reached down into her neck (wrapping around a large artery) and into her upper chest. These are too complicated to be removed. Monitoring this tumor via frequent MRI's has led to a growth in her spinal cord. Over a period of 3 years, it has tripled in size and was causing edema. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s (CHOP) Neurological went in for fear of a loss due to nerve damage. The tumor was successfully removed at this time and Dina’s spine was fused with a titanium rod; pathology indicated a malignancy.
Unfortunately, two more tumors were discovered in her spinal cord. CHOP will continue to track these two very closely. They are also watching spots on her brain as well. So far they are stable. Dina’s condition is evidently a concern for the Marvian family, yet CSM Marvian remains dutifully committed to his unit, state, and country.
By doctrine, it becomes the duty of the New Jersey Army National Guard and its soldiers to
come together in service of his daughter while he protects our country over seas.
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