In May 2023, our world changed forever. My son, Lucas, began experiencing headaches and vomiting, symptoms that were initially attributed to a sinus infection. Despite multiple rounds of antibiotics, his condition did not improve. Desperate for answers, we made the difficult decision to travel to Mexico in search of better medical care.
The journey was long and exhausting. Lucas was incredibly weak and nearly lost consciousness during the trip. Upon arrival, a pediatric gastroenterologist noticed his eye was wandering and that he kept touching the back of his neck. Recognizing something was seriously wrong, she immediately sent us to the emergency room for further testing. A CT scan and MRI confirmed our worst fears—Lucas had a tumor in the center of his brain.
Hearing the diagnosis shattered my world. We spent two days in the hospital, learning about the tumor, the challenges of treatment, and the overwhelming medical and financial burden ahead. Given the complexity of his case, we made the decision to seek specialized care at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, just two hours from our home.
At Texas Children’s, the medical team confirmed that Lucas had a craniopharyngioma, a rare brain tumor. That same night, they performed his first surgery to place a shunt, alleviating pressure from the fluid buildup in his brain. Over the next five days, we consulted with countless doctors about treatment options, weighing the pros and cons of surgery versus radiation.
With limited knowledge but deep faith, we chose surgery. The procedure lasted over 10 hours, and when Lucas woke up, his first question was, “Did they remove the little ball from my head?” His resilience shone through even in his most vulnerable moments.
Our hospital stay lasted three weeks. Lucas endured countless blood tests, medications, and rigorous monitoring of his sodium levels, fluid intake, and output. Just when we thought we were on the road to recovery, a fluid abscess formed under his scalp. Initially monitored, it soon became evident that further intervention was necessary. His neurosurgeon attempted to drain it, but within days, we found ourselves back in the hospital for a third surgery.
This time, the medical team placed a shunt from his brain to his stomach to ensure proper drainage, preventing future complications. It was yet another hurdle in Lucas’ already challenging journey, but he faced it with remarkable courage.
Since then, our lives have changed in ways we never imagined. Lucas takes three medications daily and receives a growth hormone injection every night. Despite these adjustments, he remains the joyful, energetic child he has always been. Looking at him now, it’s hard to believe all that he has endured.
We are incredibly grateful for the medical professionals who cared for Lucas, the support of family and friends, and the strength that carried us through. Most of all, we are thankful that today, Lucas is thriving—proof that hope and resilience can overcome even the toughest battles.
To families facing similar journeys, know that you are not alone. There is hope, and there is a community ready to support you every step of the way.
—Lucas’ Mom
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