Young Cancer Survivor Becomes Advocate as East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Expands oncology Center
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A remarkable story of resilience adn recovery is fueling a critical expansion at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, offering hope to families facing childhood cancer.
noah, a young boy whose battle wiht leukemia spanned five years, is now cancer-free and serving as an ambassador for the hospital that saved his life. His journey, detailed below, underscores the urgent need for expanded facilities to meet the growing demand for pediatric oncology care in the region.
Sudden Diagnosis Shakes a Family
In July 2018, Noah’s life changed dramatically. What began as severe leg and abdominal pain,accompanied by labored breathing and intermittent fevers,initially led his pediatrician to suspect asthma. Though, as his condition rapidly worsened, his mother sought care at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. A complete blood count (CBC) revealed a devastating diagnosis: high-risk B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at just three and a half years old.
“The speed at which things escalated was terrifying,” a family member shared.
Noah immediately underwent surgery to have a port placed, initiating a grueling course of chemotherapy. The treatment took a significant toll, resulting in a 15% body weight loss and the need for a feeding tube. He experienced debilitating neuropathy – numbness and weakness in the hands and feet – which led to a loss of mobility, preventing him from walking and sitting up.
830 Days of Treatment and a Return of Cancer
For 830 days,the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Hematology/Oncology Clinic became central to Noah’s life. After what felt like an eternity, Noah achieved remission and returned home in late 2020.Though, eleven months later, at six years old, the cancer tragically returned, necessitating another round of intensive treatment.
Over the course of five years, Noah endured over 20 blood and platelet transfusions, 34 IVIG infusions, and 47 lumbar punctures, spending more than 120 nights within the hospital’s walls. He required three years of occupational and physical therapies and relied on leg braces, a wheelchair, and a walker to relearn how to walk. he underwent procedures to install and maintain four ports, two peripherally inserted central catheters, and two broviac catheters.
Despite these immense challenges, Noah persevered. He is now, once again, cancer free and has embraced the role of a Children’s Hospital ambassador and a 2026 Children’s Miracle network Local Champion.
Fantasy of trees to Support Expanded Oncology Center
The community now has an opportunity to support children like Noah through the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital fantasy of Trees, presented by Axle logistics. All proceeds from the event,including ticket sales,will directly fund the expansion and renovation of the Hogs for the Cause Hematology/Oncology Center.
A generous $1 million donation from Hogs for the Cause, combined with funds raised at Knoxville’s beloved holiday event, will create a larger, more comprehensive space for patients and their families. The hospital’s hematology/oncology clinic currently handles 45 new patient visits and over 450 appointments each month, highlighting the urgent need for increased capacity.
Experience the magic of Fantasy of trees from Wednesday, November 26th through Sunday, November 30th. Tickets can be purchased at fantasyoftrees.org.
