Talan’s Story

Site created on June 29, 2020

On Tuesday, June 23, 2020, I took Talan to his pediatrician with a concern of thrush. It was concluded that he actually just had a geographic tongue (some people might have heard me joke about my own geographic tongue at times - just a random characteristic I unfortunately passed on to Talan :). A few weeks before, Cody and I noticed Talan's stomach bulging out more than usual. Most people said it was normal for a baby to have a "potbelly" so I tried to not think too far into it. With persistence from Cody, I asked the doctor about his belly while there for his tongue that afternoon. After a physical exam, a few x-rays, and some blood work; our lives would never be the same. We were sent to an oncologist 2 days later, and we got the nasty "C" word -- my 17 month-old-baby boy had kidney cancer.... I still can't believe I am even sitting here writing this, my heart is broken. This journey will not be the easiest, but I know our faith will get us through - and I pray our story can be a testimony to God.  Please add our precious baby to your prayers as often as humanly possibly. I will continue to post updates, so feel free to check back frequently. It will be the best place to streamline our communication for friends and family. Thank you for all of the overwhelming support. 
With love, Cody, Julia, and Talan

Newest Update

Journal entry by Julia Johnson

TODAY marks ONE YEAR since Talan had what we thought was a cancerous tumor/right kidney removed! But through the power of prayer, and God's miraculous healing hand, Talan fell in the 5% chance of a benign tumor. God is so good - I don't know why he spared my little boy, but I sure am forever grateful. He had his great grandma Rita and grandpa Randy up in heaven as his guardian angels, I have no doubt.

This has been the fastest, yet longest, year ever. Today, Talan is such a vibrant, spunky two year old. He loves playing with his choo-choos, watching Dino Ranch and Dino Train, playing with his toy cars, buses, and semis. Sounds like a normal two year old, right? He sure is. 

We had our last span of every 3 month appts on Monday with oncology. The tests all came back GREAT and Talan is now in the clear, as the first year of mesoblastic nephroma is the most critical to ensure there are no recurrences. Now, it is about a 2% chance going forward of any more growths. He will have 2 more 6 month appts with oncology and he will likely be released, as he never had cancer or a drop of chemo!! We will continue lifelong care with the nephrologist to ensure he has a healthy kidney function.

Thank you for all the support this past year. Words cannot describe how thankful Cody and I are to have such great friends, family, and even strangers in our prayer circle!!! 

Last year, we spent the 4th of July in the hospital, watching the fireworks from the PICU window. This year, we will be celebrating with family and friends!!! 

With Love,
Julia
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