Mykah had a Pilocytic Astrocytoma removed from his brain on Monday, September 23rd under the careful and critical care of Dr. Boop at LeBonheur Hospital located in Memphis, TN. 

The tumor was discovered just the Thursday before, on the 19th, after having a precautionary MRI performed advised by his amazing pediatrician. Leading up to the 19th, our big and strong athlete just didn't quite seem to be himself after showing signs of coordination issues (particularly on his left side) and what could have been easily looked at as "normal accidental occurrences."  Within 24 hours, Mykah was admitted into the hospital and flown to Memphis the very next day. He was sent there specifically because LeBonheur has an entire floor dedicated to Neuro patients and is one of the top facilities in the country for Brain Tumors.

A Pilocytic Astrocytoma is a benign brain tumor that arises from astrocytes, the supportive cells in the nervous system. Astrocytes are responsible for a variety of roles, including providing nutrients to neurons, maintaining the blood-brain barrier, and modulating neurotransmission. For most patients, the cause of this tumor is unknown. However, it CAN come back. Because of this, Mykah will have to be carefully monitored and scanned every 3 months to ensure no new signs of tumor growth.

Although the tumor has been successfully removed, Mykah now faces a very  hard road ahead. Mykah is going to need extensive forms of therapy to gain his coordination, speech, and fine motor skill function again. It is our prayer that none of the side effects from surgery are permanent and with time, prayers, and patience anything through Christ is possible. The goal is to get Mykah to a rehabilitative center closer to home (Tri-Cities or Knoxville) but the time frame for recovery is still unknown.

Medical professionals cannot promise how long it will take Mykah to walk, talk, and use his limbs again like he once could, BUT God promises us mercy and healing. Mykah has shown immense progress in just a short amount of time as he is a fighter, refusing to give up. 

To everyone praying, donating, and supporting the Harris family, thank you ALL from the bottom of our hearts.
#Mykahstrong