Harpers Fight Against Neuroblastoma

Just a few weeks after her first birthday, Harper Rose was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood cancer called Neuroblastoma. Neuroblastoma is a rare form of cancer which grows from nerve cells and almost exclusively affects children. On July 27 after Harper had dinner and Tre had changed her diaper he noticed a bulge in Harper's left side. They had thought Harper was only full and needed to use the restroom. She had used the restroom twice and the bulge was still there. After an uneasy feeling in both Katie and Tre the next morning they decided to take Harper to the doctor. From there Harpers pediatrician had felt and examined the bulge and sent them to Rady's Children's Emergency Room. Katie went in with Harper as only one parent was aloud in at a time. They had started doing tests resulting in an ultrasound, IV placement and labs. At 12am July 28 Harper was admitted to the hospital for what looked like cancerous mass. Katie had stayed the first night alone with Harper and Tre slept in his truck patiently waiting to know what was wrong with Harper. The hospital staff considered and agreed to letting Tre stay for the duration of Harper's stay so their family could be together.Harper is currently at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego where she will be undergoing her first round of chemotherapy this week. The treatment plan that the pediatric oncology team has decided upon as the best course of action is chemotherapy every 3 weeks, 22 days, 4 cycles for 12 weeks. Along with going to the hospital twice a week for labs and possible blood transfusion if her hemoglobin or platelets are dropped to low. Due to COVID restrictions during Harper's treatment only one parent will be allowed to accommodate her during cycles of chemotherapy, labs, and doctor visits. Katie is still exclusively breastfeeding Harper, which indicates her being the parent to stay with Harper during those visits. After 4 cycles of chemotherapy the surgeon will decide if the tumor has shrunk enough to be safely removed. The tumor is pressed against her kidney, organs and important blood vessels which can cause damage if removed now. If the tumor has not shrunk to a safe size after 4 cycles of chemotherapy, the oncology team will place Harper in another 4 cycles of chemotherapy. Those who know Katie and Tre (Harper's Parents), know that they are fiercely independent people who struggle to ask for help. This GoFundMe has been created in order to provide a way for family and friends to help Katie, Tre and Harper in any way during this incredibly stressful time. All donations will be used to offset the cost of healthcare bills, gas, food and anything they may need. Katie has had to withdraw from school full-time for Fall semester and possible Spring semester. This resulted in loss of Katie’s financial aid that helped pay their bills. As any parent, grandparent, or guardian knows, it is next to impossible to even conceive the idea of leaving a little one alone in the hospital through the night or for a day or really, even for a few hours. We are on the early leg of our journey to being cancer free and appreciate any assistance as we take it one day at a time. Even if you can’t donate Katie, Tre, and Harper appreciate any support,love, and prayers! You can send care packages as well, anything they are thankful and grateful for. Reach directly out to Katie, Tre or myself for their address! Thank you!