WALTHAM, Mass. -- Saturday will be "Dig for Kira" Day at Bentley University with the Falcon women's volleyball team raising money for Kira Corning, daughter of former Bentley volleyball player Renee Renda Corning, during its match with Pace University at the Dana Center. Starting time is 1:00 pm.
Pledges can be made for each dig that Bentley has during the match (the team averages about 12 per set, and 36-50 per match), with the team looking to raise a minimum of $1,500. Fans and supporters of Bentley volleyball can also donate a flat sum, and can purchase "Dig Pink" t-shirts.
In February 2006, Kira had an MRI which showed two brain tumors. The doctors determined the tumors are juvenile pilocytic astrocytomas (JPA). Chemo and treatment do not cure nor shrink the size of her tumors, but are intended to stop the growth. What she has isn't terminal; however, she'll constantly be fighting this and have to deal with the symptoms such as vomiting, balance, lazy eye, double vision, and other disabilities for the rest of her life along with treatments.
In 2008, Kira was diagnosed with a third brain tumor. She is back on another eight cycles of chemotherapy (TPCV) that will last about 48 weeks. At this location, it is too dangerous for surgery or radiation.
Kira's oncologist feels that there could be 1000 "seeds" and the family needs to be prepared to have Kira keep going back on treatment every 3 years to deal with new tumors or just her current growing tumors. It is believed that these tumors automatically shut themselves down when kids get into their mid 20's.
Come out and support this very worthwhile cause. For additional information, contact coach Sandy Hoffman at shoffman@bentley.edu.
