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Ziad Selbak was a pint-sized patient with a huge medical challenge. In March 2017, the two-year-old was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), an aggressive form of liver cancer rare in young children.
But specialists at Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center were ready to take on the challenge. They collaborated on an innovative application of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) — an established treatment for adults — to deliver chemotherapy directly to Ziad’s large tumor and stabilize his condition with the ultimate goal of liver transplant.
It all started in February 2017, when Ziad took a tumble on a toy at his family’s home in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. …
Away from home for the holidays: A new liver gives Phillips the gift of life
Family, friends, food, presents and a tree: It might have seemed like any other Christmas, but there were a few important differences that made this day unique for the Pratts. They were celebrating the holiday a week early. And their younger son, Phillips, was about to get the gift of a lifetime. In just a few days, the 14-year-old would receive a liver transplant. …
‘Like night and day’: Kellen’s new kidney
Like any parent, Brittany Young has scores of photos of her four children, whether they’re celebrating the holidays, visiting Disney World or just goofing around. But it’s a picture of her son Kellen at Boston Children’s Hospital that has the potential to bring tears to a viewer’s eyes. Surrounded by his care team, Kellen sits in his hospital bed, a wide smile on his face. There, amid the stuffed toys and colorful blankets, rests a seemingly innocuous item: a package of Pampers. Yet for Kellen and his family, those diapers mean so much more. They’re a sign that this little boy’s newly transplanted kidney is working just as it should. …
A bond rooted in kidney transplant: Catching up with Ayden and Aubrey
We celebrate National Kidney Month with a look back at a special friendship sparked by kidney transplant.
Ayden was born with polycystic kidney disease.
Aubrey was diagnosed with congenital nephrotic syndrome at 4 months old, and by age 18 months, she had both kidneys removed and was on dialysis. …