In the midst of Easter weekend in 2022, Nash's parents, Kendyll and Preston, were faced with a startling discovery. During a routine diaper change, they noticed a lump on their son, Nash's, stomach. With concern mounting, they wasted no time and reached out to their pediatrician, who promptly referred them to Phoenix Children's for imaging. That imaging revealed hepatoblastoma, a malignant form of liver cancer.
The response from Nash's dedicated care team at the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders was immediate and comprehensive. They placed a port on Nash while he was under anesthesia, laying the groundwork for the arduous battle that lay ahead.
Immediately, Nash embarked on an intensive journey of inpatient chemotherapy, enduring six grueling cycles. Amidst the rollercoaster of hope and setbacks, two transplant offers were received but ultimately fell through. However, in a heartening turn of events, a new liver was successfully transplanted to Nash in November. He triumphantly rang the bell at Phoenix Children's in January 2023, symbolizing the completion of his treatment and his hard-fought victory over cancer.
Since his diagnosis and the commencement of his treatment, Nash has made remarkable progress with the unwavering support of his loved ones and exceptional care he received at Phoenix Children's.
Despite the battles that lie ahead, Nash's family remains filled with hope. Kendyll says, “The PCH team is the most brilliant, patient, respectful, and selfless team of people I’ve ever met. We’ve always had amazing experiences there—even on the toughest of days. Many people have been a part of this victory.”
Nash has over 600 Beads of Courage, and here are some of his numbers:
- 186 shots given at home
- 130+ days inpatient at PCH in 2022
- 95+ days of inpatient isolation
- 50+ pokes to access his port
- 43 days of chemotherapy
- 35 clinic visits
- 30+ NG “tubie” replacements
- 29 scans
- 10 blood transfusions
- 9 platelet transfusions
- 4 blood drives
- 2 surgeries
- 1 liver transplant
- 1 trip to CHLA and Angel Flight West
- Countless meds and hours of music therapy, animal-assisted therapy, physical therapy, anesthesia and Disney movies
Nash's Interests
Cruising around in his mini Jeep
Giving hugs
Spending time with his brother
The outdoors
Wrestling
- “Child Life has been a part of Nash’s inpatient and outpatient experience throughout Nash’s entire journey. They bring the fun and peace of mind to hospital procedures. As a parent, I always enjoy having Child Life’s prospective on how to handle a situation.”KendyllNash's mom
Phoenix Children’s Patient Ambassadors are a valiant bunch—they’ve shown immense strength amidst great setbacks. They’re also athletes, intellectuals, artists and the best siblings.
Even though their lives are full of medical appointments, they want to help other patients. Each Ambassador has created a fundraising page to support Phoenix Children’s. Consider donating to Nash's fund in support of Child Life today.
