From routine checkup to recovery: Raegan’s neuroblastoma journey

# How a routine well visit uncovered neuroblastoma

At Raegan Glendon's 15-month well visit, a routine hemoglobin check came back lower than expected. The family and pediatrician initially considered iron deficiency. When a repeat test matched the result, additional labs were ordered and the pediatrician called the Glendons the same day to go to Akron Children's.

During the exam, Raegan winced when the doctor pressed her abdomen. An overnight ultrasound identified a large mass. Subsequent testing confirmed neuroblastoma, a childhood cancer that most often develops in the adrenal gland. In Raegan's case, tumor testing found a genetic marker associated with high-risk disease.

# Immediate shift to aggressive treatment

Because of Raegan's age and tumor location, the oncology team led by Dr. Hannah Elkus recommended an aggressive plan. Treatment began right away, and the family's daily routine shifted to hospital stays, appointments and therapies.

Akron Children's enrolled Raegan in a clinical trial that allowed her to receive chemotherapy locally and travel to Cincinnati Children's for specialized surgery and a bone marrow transplant. The family described the handoffs between the two hospitals as seamless, with clear communication among physicians and care teams.

# What the treatment involved

• Chemotherapy and immunotherapy were used to shrink the tumor. These treatments reduced a 12-centimeter mass—about the size of a grapefruit.
• After the tumor responded, surgeons at Cincinnati Children's removed it.
• The plan included a bone marrow transplant as part of the specialized care provided through the collaborative arrangement.

Raegan completed her final inpatient immunotherapy stay just before Christmas 2025. In February 2026 she rang a bell to mark the end of active treatment.

# Recovery and follow-up

# The people who mattered

Kelly, Raegan's mother, singled out specific clinicians and support staff by name. She credited Dr. Elkus for direct, unbiased discussions about options. Several nurses—Maddie, Brooke, Alicia, Lizzie, Jackie, Kenna and Erin—helped make lengthy hospital stays more tolerable. The family also noted the value of Renee, a child life specialist, who provided emotional and practical support beyond medical care.

# What the family learned

Kelly says Raegan taught the family about resiliency and how to find joy amid hardship. At age 3, Raegan is active at home in Green, Ohio. She celebrated a recent birthday with a mermaid-themed party alongside her 5-year-old sister, Gianna.

# Practical points for readers

• Coordinated care across hospitals can allow patients to receive local treatments while accessing specialized procedures elsewhere.
• Named, consistent caregivers and child life support contribute meaningfully to family experience during long treatments.