In a heartfelt revelation, Isabella Strahan, the 19-year-old daughter of “Good Morning America” co-anchor Michael Strahan, shared her ongoing battle with medulloblastoma, a malignant brain tumor.
Isabella Strahan, a freshman at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, began experiencing debilitating symptoms in early October, including headaches, nausea, and difficulty walking. Initially attributing her condition to vertigo, her situation took a dire turn on October 25 when she started vomiting blood. Concerned, Isabella contacted her sister, prompting her family to encourage her to seek immediate medical attention.
Following a thorough checkup by a diligent doctor, Isabella was rushed to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where an MRI revealed a fast-growing 4-centimeter tumor at the back of her brain. The diagnosis was a shock for both Isabella and her father, Michael Strahan, who rushed to be by her side.
Medulloblastoma is a rare form of malignant brain tumor, typically affecting children, with approximately 500 new cases reported each year. Isabella’s case is particularly uncommon given her age, but she embarked on her journey to recovery with determination.
On October 27, just a day before her 19th birthday, Isabella underwent emergency surgery at Cedars-Sinai to remove the tumor. Her recovery was challenging, marked by medication-induced fogginess and the need to relearn basic motor skills with the support of her twin sister, Sophia.
In the following weeks, Isabella Strahan underwent a rigorous regimen of rehabilitation and multiple rounds of radiation treatment, completing her final session with the symbolic ringing of the bell to celebrate her progress.
While the treatment has taken a toll on her body, causing fatigue, nausea, and dizziness, Isabella maintains a positive outlook, eagerly anticipating the start of chemotherapy at Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center in Durham, North Carolina, in February.
Despite initially keeping her battle private, Isabella Strahan now plans to share her journey through a new YouTube series, in partnership with Duke Children’s, to offer support and inspiration to those undergoing similar experiences.
Both Isabella and her father, Michael Strahan, expressed gratitude for the support they have received and how this ordeal has shifted their perspectives on life. They emphasized the importance of cherishing the simple joys and valuing the support of loved ones during challenging times.
Isabella looks forward to returning to college in California once her treatment concludes, eager to regain a sense of normalcy and continue her education.
