Name: Talyn
Diagnosis: bilateral retinoblastoma
The first indication that something was wrong with Talyn came during a well baby checkup when she was 10 months old. Talyn's doctor noticed a whiteglare in her eyes and sent Talyn and her mom to a specialist. The news was devastating. Talyn suffered from cancerous tumors in both her eyes, known as bilateral retinoblastoma.
Talyn was referred to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital right away. "We didn't have time to go home," said Talyn's mom. "Once the doctor said weneeded to go to St. Jude, we got right on a plane. Our whole world changed overnight." Within hours, Talyn and her parents were on their way to Memphis.
At St. Jude:
When they arrived at St. Jude, Talyn's parents were full of worry, but St. Jude staff assured them that their baby was at the best place possible for her treatment. Talyn underwent seven months of chemotherapy and four laser surgeries on her eyes.
Talyn's parents felt anxious about the cost of their daughter's medical treatment, and they were understandably overwhelmed. Talyn's dad said he would work three jobs if necessary to save his little girl.
But when they learned St. Jude provides treatment regardless of the family's ability to pay, they were amazed and relieved. "We didn't know that St. Jude helps out so much," Talyn's mom said. "It was a big load off our shoulders." They were able to focus on what was important—getting Talyn well.
Talyn responded well to treatment. Her doctors are hopeful they were able to save her eyesight. In December, Talyn was able to return home in time for Christmas. She visits St. Jude every six weeks for checkups. Talyn is walking and talking, and has a new puppy with whom she loves to play.
June 2009
