Hero Harpie Fights Kidney Cancer

On Thursday, may 27, the Skajewski family received news that seemed to be unimaginable, Harper Jade had kidney cancer. The battle nearly began right then and there.

Harper was admitted to Sanford Children’s hospital where the following day, may 28, she underwent surgery to remove three tumors and the left kidney. The tumors were deemed to be Wilms tumors. Unfortunately, one of the tumors did rupture leaving blood staining in her abdominal cavity. Along with the cancerous tumors in the kidney that was removed, there are tiny nodules on Harper’s lungs that are suspicious. At this time, it is uncertain if the cancer has metastasized or not. Luckily, there is no sign of cancerous cells in the lymph nodes. Praise the Lord for this!

With all that said, Harper’s diagnosis is Stage 2 kidney cancer. This next week, Harper will begin both radiation and chemotherapy. The radiation will target the entire abdomen where the blood staining is present and the chemotherapy will work to fight off any cancer cells that may remain in her body after the removal of the kidney. The chemotherapy will also be a great way for doctors to determine if the nodules in Harper’s lungs are cancerous.

Unfortunately, the radiation will potentially have some long-lasting effects. The main one being a less than 20% chance to conceive in the future. Because of this, the Skajewski family will be traveling to Mayo Clinic to remove and then freeze one of Harper’s ovaries on Monday, May 3.

Harper, a bright, outgoing, and sometimes feisty girl, has been so brave, resilient, and strong thus far. Although her life has changed drastically within the last 10 days, she is facing this battle with the utmost amount of courage. Nicholas and Sarah have demonstrated an amazing amount of strength, as well. If you are able and willing, they would be more than grateful for your support in the coming days and weeks as the fight against cancer truly begins.

Harpie, the hero, can and WILL defeat cancer! Thank you, in advance, for your support and outpouring of love! ❤️