Tough Like Thiago: Beating ATRT Together

Welcome to Thiago’s Journey

Thank you for visiting this page to support baby Thiago and his family during this incredibly difficult time. Thiago’s family and friends have come together to create this GoFundMe to help alleviate the financial burden they are facing so they can focus entirely on helping Thiago through his treatment and recovery. All funds raised will go directly to Thiago’s family to support his care.

Thiago’s journey began on November 20th when his parents noticed his head tilting slightly to the left. At first, they thought it might be a sore neck, but when he started throwing up, they rushed him to the ER. There, they received heartbreaking news—a mass was discovered in his brain, located along his brain stem.

On November 22nd, Thiago underwent a long surgery to remove the tumor. Unfortunately, due to its location, doctors were only able to remove a small portion. The sample was enough for a biopsy, and just days later, Thiago’s family learned he had been diagnosed with ATRT (Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor), a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. Fortunately, the cancer had not metastasized, giving the family hope as they moved forward with treatment.

Thiago began his first round of chemotherapy in early December, which extended through Christmas and New Year’s. During this time, he became neutropenic, and further complications led to a brief stay in the pediatric intensive care unit. To make things even harder, the rest of the family was sick and unable to visit, so Magda (Mom) and Thiago spent Christmas and New Years in the hospital while Rey ( Dad) and Liam (Brother) stayed home. It was a difficult holiday for the family, made even more challenging by the separation.

Thankfully, Thiago’s levels recovered after his first round of chemo, and the family was able to return home just in time to celebrate his first birthday on January 5th. This joyful milestone brought light during an otherwise difficult time.

Now, Thiago is back in the hospital for his second round of chemotherapy. After this round, additional imaging and tests in late January will determine the next steps. Depending on how the tumor responds, Thiago may require further treatments such as additional chemotherapy, radiation, or another surgery before moving to the next phase. That phase includes three rounds of stem cell transplants combined with high-dose chemotherapy, with each round potentially lasting up to 45 days. This is just the beginning of what will be a long journey, and his family will continue to adjust plans as needed to ensure Thiago gets the best possible care.

Thiago is a sweet, loving little boy who lights up every room with his smile. Despite the challenges he’s facing, he is learning how to crawl and stand, and he’s even taking some assisted steps. He has also been picking up new words, which brings so much joy to his family. These milestones are especially precious as chemotherapy can sometimes cause children to regress in their development.

Magda has been Thiago’s rock, staying by his side every day and night at the hospital, never leaving him. Rey has been balancing work, caring for Liam, and supporting the family through this difficult time.

This GoFundMe has been organized by those closest to the family to provide financial support for necessities like food, gas, bills, and Thiago’s care. Rey has had to miss work, and the mounting costs of daily life are adding to the stress they are already under.

Any donation—whether it’s $5, $25, $50, or more—will make a meaningful difference. Donations may also be made anonymously, if you prefer that option. If you’re unable to contribute financially, the family is equally grateful for your prayers, love, and words of encouragement. We kindly appreciate if you can share this page with your friends and family.

Thiago is a fighter, and his family is doing everything in their power to help him beat this. They are deeply grateful for the love and support surrounding them during this difficult time.

Thank you for keeping Thiago and his family in your thoughts and prayers.