HAWORTH, N.J. — A 5-year-old boy from Haworth is facing a grueling 18-month treatment plan after being diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer, according to his family.
Key Points
- Daniel, 5, was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma after weeks of worsening symptoms
- A 15cm tumor was found pressing on his lung, requiring urgent pediatric oncology care
- Over $120,000 has been raised through GoFundMe to assist the family with medical and living expenses
Daniel, affectionately known as “Danylko,” first showed signs of illness in early January, prompting several doctor visits for what was believed to be pneumonia. His condition rapidly worsened, requiring a chest tube and a hospital transfer after imaging revealed a mass in his chest.
At Hackensack Meridian Hospital, specialists confirmed the presence of a tumor spanning Daniel’s chest and abdomen and compressing his left lung, causing severe respiratory issues. He was placed on a BiPAP machine to help him breathe and underwent multiple procedures and biopsies.
Diagnosis and treatment
Two weeks after initial tests, Daniel’s family received confirmation of a high-risk neuroblastoma diagnosis. The planned treatment regimen includes intensive chemotherapy, surgery, stem cell transplants, radiation, and immunotherapy, expected to last between 14 and 18 months.
Daniel’s parents previously faced a similar battle when his brother, Peter, was diagnosed with cancer in 2020. “Our world was turned upside-down,” the family said on their GoFundMe campaign.
Community support grows
As Daniel’s parents navigate the emotional and financial toll of treatment, community members have contributed over $120,000 to a fundraising campaign to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and essential costs.
Donations continue to support the family through the lengthy and difficult treatment process, with updates being shared via the online campaign page.
