Mom's Instinct Saves Baby from Liver Cancer

A Kentucky mother's keen observation of her infant daughter, Miley, led to a critical early diagnosis of a rare childhood cancer. Initially noticing a small knot on her abdomen and a progressively larger belly, the mother, Hannah Damron, initially attributed these signs to common infant issues like teething or constipation.

However, when Miley, then around seven months old, began losing interest in eating, Damron's maternal instinct urged her to seek a pediatrician's opinion. An ultrasound revealed a significant mass on Miley's liver, prompting immediate transfer to Kentucky Children's Hospital.

Further tests confirmed Miley had hepatoblastoma, an uncommon embryonal cancer affecting approximately 1.5 to 2 children per million annually. Despite initial disbelief, the gravity of the diagnosis, which revealed a rare primary liver tumor in infants, became clear.

Miley has since endured chemotherapy, surgeries, and multiple intensive care unit stays. Her resilience and positive outlook have been a profound source of inspiration for her family. She has responded exceptionally well to chemotherapy, with doctors recommending one more round to further shrink the tumor before surgery.

Damron shares Miley's journey to raise awareness and empower other parents to trust their instincts and advocate for their children. She hopes their story demonstrates that miracles are possible and that hope can endure even through the darkest times.