Eric’s story begins on the last day of summer sports camp in 2023. Like any other day, Eric was active and enthusiastic, enjoying a game of soccer, when he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his pelvis. At the time, it seemed like a minor issue that could be resolved with some rest and over-the-counter remedies. After a warm bath with Epsom salt and some Tylenol, the pain subsided, and life returned to normal—at least for a little while.
As the new school year started, Eric was back in action, participating in gym class and other physical activities. However, the pain returned, lingering this time, causing discomfort that lasted for weeks. Despite being an active and tough young man, Eric mentioned the pain to his parents but didn’t complain much. The pain eventually subsided again, only to return a month later, prompting his parents to initiate a telemedicine consultation with a doctor. The initial diagnosis was tendonitis, and Eric was advised to take over-the-counter medication and rest.
For a few weeks, the treatment seemed to work, but the pain returned yet again. Concerned, Eric’s parents took him to his primary care physician, who attempted various tests to reproduce the pain but was unsuccessful. This led to an x-ray, which revealed something unexpected—a potential cyst. To get a clearer picture, Eric was sent for an MRI, and it was then that the real challenge was uncovered: it wasn’t a cyst but a tumor on his left hip/pelvis.
The diagnosis was a shock to Eric and his family. A young teenager who was always active and engaged in sports now had to face a serious medical condition. “Eric would experience pain while running and jumping. It prevented him from playing football, participating in Gym activities, and playing outside with his friends as he normally did daily,” his mom shared. His daily life was drastically altered, and the reality of the situation began to set in.
Fortunately, Eric was in good hands. The team at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Delaware, including his dedicated doctors—Dr. Powell, Dr. Guarino, Dr. Gonzales, and Dr. Parisio—and nurses, particularly Julia and Kimmie, all played a crucial role in his care. The relationship Eric built with all of them went beyond just medical care; they became a source of comfort and encouragement for Eric and his family.
One of the most touching aspects of Eric’s experience was the support he received from his medical team at Nemours. His family had created a webpage selling t-shirts and other clothing items to rally support from friends and family, and many of the nurses purchased and wore them during his lab appointments and chemotherapy sessions. The team showed that they genuinely care for him and for mom and dad: “They were always making sure that we were comfortable and informed about resources and in the know about things that would be beneficial to us as a family.” This simple solidarity showed Eric that he was not alone and that the medical team genuinely cared about his and his family’s well-being.
Another unforgettable moment for Eric was stepping onto the field at Citizens Bank Park for the Phillies Childhood Cancer Awareness Night on September 1st, 2024, where he proudly took the mound as the honorary first pitch guest. It was an incredible experience for him and his family, making it a truly special and memorable occasion.
Currently, Eric is in phase two of his treatments, and so far, the progress has been positive. They share, “So far, so good, and we are looking forward to continued progress in MRI #3. We’re thankful for the swift and aggressive plan of action from the onset of his treatments.” He and his family are hopeful; this plan of action from the beginning of his treatments has given them confidence in the journey ahead.
As Eric continues his fight, he shares: “[I am] looking forward to ringing the bell and enjoying the remainder of my teenage years, resuming normal activities with my friends. I’m also looking forward to making a full recovery and traveling without the restrictions of my chemo schedule.” The future is something Eric eagerly anticipates, filled with the hope of recovery and the freedom to live life to the fullest.
Eric’s experience has also given him insight and wisdom that he’s eager to share with others facing similar challenges. His advice is straightforward and profound: “Think positive. Remember that it’s not your fault. Pay attention to your oncology team and course of care. Try your best not to become withdrawn and/or depressed; find someone to talk to. Therapy is ok. Remember, there are many resources available to you. Keep the faith and pray. Brighter days are ahead.”
Eric’s journey is far from over, but with the care of Nemours and the strength he carries within, the future looks bright.
