In the summer of 2021, Pedro’s life took an unexpected and challenging turn. At just 14 years old, he was diagnosed with a juvenile brain tumor, known as pilocytic astrocytoma, a type of brain tumor that developed in his optic nerves. While the tumor itself wasn’t cancerous, it measured 3 inches and necessitated a rigorous regimen of two years of chemotherapy before any surgical intervention. The tumor caused Pedro to lose his left vision and his right peripheral sight. For a teenager with dreams of excelling as a star student athlete, this diagnosis felt like a devastating blow.
For a moment, Pedro’s future seemed to spiral into chaos, and his high school aspirations were overshadowed by a harsh new reality.
Enter the UC Davis team of doctors and nurses that not only had all the answers we needed but gave him hope of having his life back after a long and scary journey. Pedro went through two years of treatment at the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento and three brain procedures. He is now graduating high school and dreaming of his college life, thanks to the amazing team of nurses and doctors that treated him:
- Neurosurgeon Dr. Edwards for lifting Pedro’s spirits
- Neurosurgeon Dr. Orin Bloch for performing a 6-hour brain surgery that removed as much tumor as possible, without deteriorating his vision
- Oncologist Dr. Reuben Antony for his support
- Ophthalmologist Dr. Allison Liu for lifting his spirits
Pedro’s vision problems were first revealed during a routine eye exam at an optometrist. As soon as he noticed that the issue was much more serious than vision correction, the doctor said the following words that Pedro and his parents will be forever grateful: “Don’t waste your time and go straight to UC Davis emergency care. If anyone can help your child, it’s them.”
He was absolutely right.
– Testimonial submitted by Carina Hollanda, Pedro’s mother
