A 6-year-old’s eyes were crossed. Doctors found a fast-growing brain tumor.
Imani Dell, a vibrant 6-year-old, was on the brink of summer vacation and eagerly anticipating second grade. However, a sudden health scare threw her family into turmoil. It all started with crossed eyes, which led to a shocking discovery – a golf-ball sized tumor in her brain. The news was devastating for her mother, Johnesha Brown, who scrambled to get Imani the medical attention she needed.
After a successful brain surgery at the Holtz Children’s Hospital, Imani was diagnosed with a medulloblastoma, a type of fast-growing tumor commonly found in children. The road to recovery was long and arduous, with Imani undergoing 30 rounds of radiation and nine cycles of chemotherapy. The treatment took a toll on her young body, but her resilience and the unwavering support of her family saw her through.
Throughout the treatment process, Imani was homeschooled, with her mother diligently guiding her through lessons while she battled the side effects of therapy. The journey was filled with uncertainty and fear, but ultimately culminated in Imani completing her treatment in August 2025. The family celebrated by visiting a theme park, marking a new chapter in Imani’s life.
Returning to school for second grade was a significant milestone for Imani, who faced the challenge with a mix of nerves and excitement. Regular scans will be part of her future to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence, but for now, the results are promising. Imani’s renewed insurance covered the entire treatment process, and she even participated in research studies.
Today, Imani is thriving, slowly but surely returning to her old self. Her journey is a testament to her strength and the power of love and support from her family. As her mother reflects on the journey, she expresses gratitude for the positive outcome and the return of normalcy to their lives. For Imani and her family, everything is finally falling into place.



