ABOUT DIPG
What Is DIPG?
Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a rare, aggressive pediatric brain tumor that forms in the pons, an area of the brainstem responsible for vital functions such as breathing, swallowing, heart rate, balance, and eye movement.
Because the tumor grows between healthy brain tissue, it cannot be safely removed through surgery.Each year, approximately 300 children in the United States are diagnosed with DIPG. While it accounts for only a small percentage of childhood cancers, it remains one of the deadliest pediatric brain tumors.Today, there is no cure for DIPG.
Treatment Options
Although there is currently no cure, treatment focuses on slowing tumor growth, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life.
Common treatment approaches include:
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Radiation therapy – The current standard treatment that can temporarily reduce symptoms and slow tumor progression for many children.
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Clinical trials – Many families choose to participate in clinical research evaluating new therapies, targeted treatments, immunotherapies, or drug combinations.
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Supportive and palliative care – Services that help manage symptoms, improve comfort, and support the emotional and practical needs of the entire family throughout the journey.
A DIPG diagnosis changes life in an instant. Families are suddenly asked to make impossible decisions while navigating medical appointments, treatments, financial burdens, and overwhelming uncertainty.
No family should have to face this journey alone.
At Friends of Finley, we believe every family deserves compassionate support, trusted resources, meaningful connection, and opportunities to create lasting memories with their child. While we continue to advocate for better treatments and a cure, we are committed to walking alongside families through every stage of their journey.
Together, we can lessen the burden, honor every child's legacy, and bring hope to families facing the unimaginable.
Hope in Heartbreak
