At just seven years old, Seth has already overcome more challenges than most face in a lifetime.
Seth’s health challenges began when he was just three years old. What initially seemed like persistent allergies turned out to be something much more serious. After multiple doctor visits, his family discovered a tumor growing in his sinus tract. The day after Christmas in 2020, they rushed to the Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware emergency department, expecting a routine visit. Instead, they never went home.
Seth was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. The tumor not only blocked his airway but also led to severe complications, including serious blood clots. Within his first week at Nemours Children’s, he underwent multiple emergency surgeries. “He had surgery Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday that week,” shares Deborah, his great-aunt who has cared for him since infancy, and has been by his side throughout his entire journey.
Seth’s journey has included numerous complex treatments and procedures, beginning with an initial consultation the day after Christmas in 2020. A biopsy was performed that same day, confirming the need for chemotherapy and radiation. However, before treatment could begin, Seth developed multiorgan ischemia, requiring extensive gastrointestinal surgery performed by Dr. Abigail Martin. Dr. Nicole Aaronson later placed a tracheostomy to support his breathing. Under the care of Dr. Andrew Walter, Seth underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and in April 2021, he had a transnasal endoscopic surgery with Dr. William Parkes to remove the primary tumor and reduce the risks associated with future radiation. Throughout his hospital stay, he faced challenges with gastrointestinal and nasopharyngeal bleeds, requiring several procedures to address them, the last of which took place in November 2022. By August 2021, he was decannulated and able to eat by mouth again. However, he had a persistent tracheocutaneous fistula, which Dr. Aaronson closed in December 2023. Dr. Jennifer Bleznak helped coordinate much of his ongoing care following his initial treatments and resection, ensuring he continued to receive the specialized care he needed. Throughout these procedures, Seth lost his gallbladder, spleen, and part of his liver and bowel. Surgeons, oncologists, therapists, and nurses all played a role in his recovery, providing him the best possible chance at healing.
Seth spent over a year at Nemours, and during that time, the hospital became more than just a place of treatment—it became a second home. The nurses and doctors weren’t just caregivers; they became family.
“He thinks he’s the mayor there now,” Deborah laughed. “We stop by to see everyone when we’re in the area because they mean so much to us.”
Even during the most difficult moments, the staff found ways to bring comfort and joy. Deborah recalled how his respiratory team brought in a bucket of snow so Seth could build a snowman, even though he couldn’t go outside. Nurses played hide-and-seek in the hallways, and his physical therapists helped him regain his strength through creative and engaging activities.
“Michelle Kennard, Rachel, Mackenzie, Caitlin—they all made such a difference,” Deborah said. “They didn’t just take care of him medically; they made sure he felt like a kid.”
Today, Seth is thriving. He recently celebrated three years cancer-free—a milestone that brings both relief and gratitude. Though he still requires ongoing care, including GI treatments and eye surgeries, he faces it all with a spirit as bold as ever.
“If you didn’t know what he’s been through, you’d never guess,” Deborah says. “He’s sassy, he’s full of energy, and he loves to talk. He’s making up for all the time he couldn’t speak when he had his trach.”
For families navigating similar journeys, Deborah offers this advice, “Never give up hope. Just because you receive a cancer diagnosis, doesn’t mean it’s the end. There’s incredible technology and amazing people who don’t just do their jobs—they become family. We had prayers from all over, and our faith kept us strong. God told us to trust Him, and that’s what we did.” Through all the challenges, Nemours has remained a place of healing and comfort for Seth—a true home away from home. But there’s no feeling quite like returning to where he truly belongs. As Deborah put it, “Each time we pull through the gates, Seth says it best: ‘Home sweet home.’”
