Harlan

Harlan was diagnosed with ATRT in January 2024 at 6 months of age. He underwent surgery, during which approximately 95% of the tumor was resected. Following the surgery, he experienced a few seizures, some weakness on his right side, and difficulty eating, but he recovered well from all of these symptoms.

Harlan began induction chemotherapy in February 2024. He tolerated the two induction rounds very well, surprising all the staff working with him. He was initially scheduled for another surgery after these rounds, but the remaining tumor was so minimal that the risk of surgery was deemed not worth trying to locate the small bit left.

He then proceeded to Consolidation with stem cell rescue, beginning the final round of chemo in June 2024. By the end of June, he had finished chemotherapy and began radiation.

This past year has been a time full of many joys. Harlan continues to thrive, getting stronger and growing in all areas every day. He even got to go to Disney World this past March with his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He had an amazing time at Magic Kingdom and swimming at the pool.

Unfortunately, in early April, his routine scan revealed he had relapsed with metastatic disease. He has since started on the MEMMAT protocol and is tolerating it really well. His occupational therapists (OT) and physical therapists (PT) are always so impressed with him doing new things every time they visit, despite him going through active treatment. His most recent routine scan since his relapse showed stable disease and a decrease of malignant cells in his CSF.

His family shares, “We are doing all we can to keep him happy and as healthy as possible. He continues to beat all odds and remains such a shining light in this world. He loves all the staff, nurses, doctors, NPs, and patients at the clinic. He brings so much joy to a place that can be full of negativity. We are so thankful God has given us more time with him and led us down this path to treatment. Harlan shows us each moment how to look to God and be so thankful for the joy he brings us. God shines so much through Harlan, and we are so proud of him. We are so thankful to celebrate his second birthday!”