Name: Natalie
Age: 4 years
Diagnosis: primitive chordoma
Home State: Missouri
When Natalie was 3 years old, she started suffering from a number of health issues, such as headaches, sinus problems, lethargy and sensitivity to light. The doctors near the family's hometown in Missouri told Natalie's parents the young girl was simply battling the flu and there was no need to be overly concerned.
Weeks later, Natalie's symptoms persisted and she starting vomiting several times a day. Her parents knew something was seriously wrong. They demanded Natalie's doctors perform numerous medical tests, but all the results came back normal. Finally, an MRI revealed the cause of Natalie's pains; a peanut-sized tumor near an optical nerve. Doctors told Natalie's parents it was primitive chordoma, an extremely rare, malignant tumor tumor.
Soon after the diagnosis, the family came to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and was able to experience some relief.
"When we came through those revolving doors, we knew we were home," said Roger, Natalie's stepfather. "They care here. Every doctor, every nurse that sees her, everyone in the hallway. You feel more at ease here."
At St. Jude, Natalie's family learned the tumor was doubling in size each day and forcing her left eye to protrude. She soon underwent a nine-hour surgery and had follow-up radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
While Natalie has lost the sight in her left eye, her parents say the intelligent 4-year-old is the inspiration and backbone of the family. "She's the strong one. She's the one who keeps us going," said Roger.
Today, Natalie is back home, healthy and enjoying a new role as big sis' to little Corby who was born into her family late last year. She also spends a lot of time playing with her dog she named Chemo Therapy and watching reality-based hospital shows.
"She wants to be a doctor when she gets older and with her determination and strong will, she'll definitely do it," said Tausha, Natalie's mother. "She is certainly an angel."
Audio Clip: Hear Natalie's family in their own words.
