In early December, Haruka was diagnosed with Stage 2/3 deep soft tissue angiosarcoma. This type of cancer is rare and aggressive, accounting for less than 1% of all sarcomas. Haruka’s tumor is approximately the size of a baseball and is located in a difficult area. It involves the left adrenal gland, left kidney, part of the pancreas, and the spleen. As Haruka has continued to meet with her care team, we have learned that there is no standard protocol or treatment plan for this cancer due to its rarity. We are grateful that Haruka was able to establish care at Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center.

Haruka’s treatment plan includes a chemotherapy regimen called AIM (Adriamycin [doxorubicin], Ifosfamide, and Mesna). Each cycle consists of six days of inpatient chemotherapy due to the aggressive nature of the treatment, followed by 14 days at home for rest and recovery. These 20 days—six inpatient and 14 at home—make up one cycle. Depending on her response, her care team hopes to complete at least four cycles. The goal is to proceed with surgery after chemotherapy, likely in March or April. Following surgery, Haruka will recover for approximately one month before beginning chemotherapy again. At this time, the specific post-surgery chemotherapy protocol is not yet known; her care team will reassess and determine the best course of action after surgery.

It is clear that the next six months will be marked by an intense treatment journey for Haruka. We are grateful that she is young, healthy, and strong.

If you haven't experience the joy of knowing Haruka personally, we would love to share a bit about her. Haruka is 33 years old and has been married to her husband, Josh, for six years. They have a joyful, adventurous 1.5-year-old son named Towa. Haruka is a loving and devoted mother and wife. She loves to travel and is a bit of a foodie (at least we think so). She’s always happy to offer recommendations on places to eat or things to see. Haruka is our family’s go-to style icon, with a passion for fashion, and she loves J-pop (Japanese pop). Her dream is to see her favorite band, Snow Man, in concert. Haruka and Josh love the outdoors, and whenever possible you’ll find them hiking, skiing, or mountain biking. They also enjoy live music and have even attended a baby rave with Towa.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read about Haruka. We trust that God is walking with her on this journey. If you are a person who prays, we ask that you pray for healing and for miracles. Whether you are a close friend or have yet to meet her, we deeply appreciate any support you are able to give.