As Zach approached his second birthday, there were a few days when he wasn’t eating or sleeping well, and several people noticed a bulge in his stomach. Zach’s mom, Jennifer, took him to the pediatrician, assuming he had a minor ailment.

Zach’s pediatrician in Wichita Falls, TX, called for an x-ray and sonogram, which showed an unusual mass.  Zach then had a CT scan, revealing a tumor about 6” in size that the doctor thought was most likely cancerous. Jennifer was given the difficult news, and the pediatrician prayed with her and assured her he was sending them on to the best care. 

The rest of that day was spent going through tests and processing the news of Zach’s diagnosis. Zach’s pediatrician began connecting with Oncology Specialists at Cook Children's in Fort Worth and setting up appointments for him.  Just a few days later, Zach had surgery to confirm the diagnosis of Stage 4, Group 4, High Risk Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma.

He completed 45 weeks of the VAC protocol along with more than 35 days of radiation, and his tumor was removed. He bravely fought like no two year old should have to, and he won his battle!

Zach has now been cancer-free for 4 years! He is a wonderful boy who loves  school (most of the time).  He enjoys watching anything Disney, visiting Disney World and traveling on family vacations.

Information provided by Jennifer Cartwright, Zach’s Mom
April 2014