Yana Miller is turning three years old in May. She has been diagnosed with a rare, non-cancerous brain tumor known as a hypothalamic hamartoma. While the tumor itself does not present immediate challenges, its central location within the brain raises considerable concerns. As Yana’s brain continues to develop, there is an increased risk of complications, including seizures and radical growth.
Brian Miller, the principal of North Middle School, and his wife, Josey, are Yana’s parents. They have a total of five children, including Yana. Despite her medical circumstances, Yana is a cheerful child with a loving disposition. However, as time progresses, she may experience significant challenges due to her condition. There is only one physician worldwide who specializes in treating this specific type of tumor, and he practices in Houston, Texas.
Given the tumor’s location, Yana faces a high risk, with an estimated success rate of only 50% for the proposed treatment. This treatment involves laser surgery, which carries inherent risks, as do all surgical procedures.
The primary objective of the surgical procedure is to remove 90% of the tumor, a procedure that is typically effective. However, should Yana continue to experience complications following the initial surgery, additional surgical procedures may be required, which would further increase the associated risks.
Yana’s youth is somewhat advantageous; her brain has not yet fully expanded, which may mitigate some risks involved in treatment. “Because of my wife, we caught it early,” explained Brian. “We’re about two years ahead of schedule because my wife just was relentless in saying something is wrong.”
Yana is the youngest of five children. “I have a son who’s a junior in high school, a daughter who’s a freshman in high school, another daughter in 6th grade, a soon to be 8-year-old son, and then Yana,” explained Brian.
A benefit fundraiser has been organized by Carolyn Suden, who works at North Middle School, to raise funds necessary for Yana’s medical expenses, including medications, hospital visits, and travel to Houston.
The benefit fundraiser is scheduled for March 8th, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, at the Elks Lodge located at 500 1st Avenue. The event will feature both silent and live auctions, as well as a 50/50 raffle.
For further details regarding donations for this remarkable family, please contact Carolyn at (406) 788-1126.
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
