Michael Strahan’s 19-year-old daughter, Isabella, confronts the challenge of battling a malignant brain tumor identified as medulloblastoma, as revealed by the “Good Morning America” co-host and his daughter on Thursday.
In an interview with his co-anchor, Robin Roberts, Michael Strahan expressed, “I genuinely believe that, in numerous ways, I am the most fortunate individual because I have an extraordinary daughter.” He acknowledged her ongoing struggle, yet he firmly believes that challenges are never insurmountable, and Isabella will overcome this ordeal.
Isabella Strahan received the diagnosis of medulloblastoma in late October, nearly a month after she began experiencing headaches during her freshman year at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
Describing her symptoms, Isabella mentioned, “I didn’t notice anything was off until probably like Oct. 1. That’s when I definitely noticed headaches, nausea, couldn’t walk straight.”
Initially attributing the symptoms to vertigo, Isabella’s condition took a severe turn on Oct. 25 when she woke up, throwing up blood. This alarming development led her to seek immediate family support and medical attention.
Encouraged by Michael Strahan, Isabella underwent a comprehensive medical examination. Grateful for the thoroughness of the doctor, Michael Strahan emphasized the critical role the doctor played in potentially saving his daughter’s life.
The medical examination revealed a fast-growing 4-centimeter tumor in the back of Isabella’s brain. The news was relayed to her before her father, and the surreal nature of the situation left Michael Strahan struggling to comprehend the reality of the situation.
Medulloblastoma, accounting for around 20% of childhood brain tumors, typically occurs in younger children. Isabella’s diagnosis, given her age of 18, was considered unusual and added to the complexity of the situation.
Confronted with the urgency of the situation, Isabella underwent emergency surgery on Oct. 27, a day before her 19th birthday, at Cedars-Sinai to remove the tumor.
The recovery phase involved foggy recollections and the need to relearn walking with the assistance of her twin sister, Sophia. Despite the challenges, Isabella received unwavering support from friends, and Michael Strahan acknowledged the resilience she displayed during moments of pain and recovery.
Post-surgery, Isabella underwent a month of rehabilitation along with multiple rounds of radiation treatment. She recently completed proton radiation therapy, marking the end of a challenging 30 sessions over six weeks.
In the face of adversity, Isabella Strahan’s journey is a testament to courage, resilience, and the unwavering support of her family and friends.