Hana was diagnosed with retinoblastoma in 2021 when she was just five months old. Her parents noticed a glow in her eye, which led to further testing and ultimately, the discovery of tumors.
Her diagnosis has meant that Hana’s family must always be alert. While her vision may be slightly affected due to a large calcified tumor in one eye, she doesn’t seem to have any trouble right now. Because of a genetic mutation, she is at higher risk for developing other cancers throughout her life, so her parents stay watchful for any unusual symptoms.
Hana has already been through so much. She’s completed four rounds of systemic chemotherapy and three rounds of intra-arterial chemotherapy, which is delivered directly through an artery. She’s had multiple MRIs and countless sedated eye exams. Her care team is based in New York City, so her family travels from Wisconsin for her medical appointments. In the beginning, they had to make the trip every four weeks. Now, thanks to her stable condition, they return every six months. The travel is expensive and often means being separated from their oldest daughter, which is never easy.
Despite the emotional and financial challenges, Hana’s cancer journey has brought incredible support and meaningful connections to her family. They are deeply grateful for every single day they have together and take life one moment at a time.
Now three years old, Hana is a spunky little girl with a heart full of sweetness. Even at her young age, she’s thoughtful and always looking out for others. She loves to make her family laugh and keeps them smiling with her playful, spirited personality.
Hope session by Birch Lane Photography by Amber | Facebook | Instagram