From a Sudden Diagnosis to a Brave Survivor: Haisley’s Journey
When upbeat second grader Haisley noticed one of her eyes was crossing, she immediately informed her mom, who took the 8-year-old directly to their pediatrician. Referrals to an ophthalmologist, then Rady Children’s Emergency Department for an urgent MRI, quickly followed. Less than two days later, Haisley was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS)—a rare cancer of the soft tissues—in her sinus cavity.
The experts from Rady Children’s Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders and Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology who made up Haisley’s care team shared that the cancer had reached stage 4 and admitted her to the hospital for 42 weeks of chemotherapy.
“Everything moved so fast, but I was so glad to have them on our side,” says Haisley’s mom, Alma.
Clinicians, case workers and compassionate professionals from throughout the Rady Children’s Health system and community came together to ensure Haisley received the treatment and support she needed to heal and continue shining her bright light. They helped the family find solutions as they navigated care, helped Haisley keep up with her schoolwork, and helped her complete nine intense months of chemotherapy.
“I have cancer, but I’m okay!” Haisley assures, now receiving regular scans to confirm the tumor has not returned. She tells other kids who ask why she lost her hair: “I’m a cancer survivor!”
Haisley hopes to one day be an actor, singer or lawyer, and her mom expresses relief and gratitude to witness her daughter still well on her way.
“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else to go through Haisley’s treatment. Rady Children’s team is made up of the kindest, most wonderful people I never wanted to meet,” says Alma.
With her stuffed Choco bear in tow and a joyful smile on her face, Haisley is a young champion, advocate and inspiration to others facing tough moments.
