In October of 2022, Arlene was diagnosed suddenly with stage 4 brain cancer known as Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), an aggressive cancer for which there is currently no cure. Within the week, her life was turned completely upside down. She went from being a vibrant woman who was always on the go and dedicated to caring for her family & friends, to her vision impaired, barely able to walk and no longer able to care for herself.  

 

She faced the diagnosis with great courage, leaning into her faith, as she moved forward with brain surgery, followed by 6 weeks of radiation, chemotherapy, and physical and occupational therapy. She did regain some functioning for a few months, but after the second round of chemo, she became very weak. Despite that, she even briefly tried a cutting-edge medical device therapy called Optune, for which she had to shave her head. However, she unfortunately was unable to tolerate its use and was never able to recover from the chemo.

 

She continued to fight and pray for a miracle for 6 months after that, with her quality of life really suffering in the final few months.  Then after an 11-month fight, Arlene lost her battle with cancer on August 31st , at the age of 82.  Through it all she remained the picture of grace – never complaining, always full of thanks for the help we all provided and so happy to hear her family’s voices and know we were there.  

 

Throughout her life, Arlene was a devoted and loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, who always prioritized others instead of herself. She brought great joy and positive spirit to her family and friends’ lives and she will be forever missed.

 

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honor her memory by donating to the GBM Foundation, which helps fund critical research on new glioblastoma treatments, so that hopefully one day there will be a way to survive the diagnosis.