Nick Tanner Reflects on Decision to Forego Chemotherapy for His Son

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In a heartfelt interview, TV personality Nick Tanner has shared the emotional journey surrounding the loss of his young son, Leo, who passed away earlier this month at just five months old. Leo was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain cancer known as a high-grade glioma at only two months old. Tanner and his partner, Mia Lewis, faced the heartbreaking choice of how best to care for their son during his final days.

In a recent conversation with People magazine, Tanner recounted the early signs that led them to seek medical advice. They noticed that Leo’s head appeared larger than usual and that he had symptoms resembling a cold. After further examination, doctors confirmed the devastating diagnosis and placed a shunt in Leo’s skull to relieve pressure from fluid build-up. Unfortunately, despite medical intervention, the tumors continued to grow, leading Tanner and Lewis to a pivotal crossroads.

“We began asking, ‘Is there a way to stop this? If not, how much time do we have left?’” Tanner explained. “The discussion soon shifted to how we could ensure he experienced the best life possible with the time he had left.” With an uncertain timeline that could range from weeks to years, Tanner and Lewis ultimately chose to forgo additional aggressive treatments like chemotherapy, which Tanner had previously endured for a health condition.

“We focused on quality of life,” he shared. “We could have opted for a hospital-bound existence filled with machines, but having witnessed the struggles of chemotherapy, I couldn’t bear the thought of subjecting my son to that kind of pain.” Instead, they chose to celebrate every moment they had, making frequent trips to their favorite place—Disneyland, and honoring Leo’s monthly milestones as victories.

However, as Thanksgiving approached, Tanner noticed a decline in Leo’s condition. He described the moment when Leo struggled to breathe as “the scariest thing I’ve ever faced.” Tragically, on December 5, Leo passed away in his parents’ arms. “We wanted to be there for him, to witness the sunrise one last time,” Tanner reflected.

“This was a brief time with a true angel,” Tanner expressed. “My heart is broken. I wish I could have taken more photos, spent more time with him, and held him longer.” Lewis also shared her grief online, stating that “the silence is deafening” and that being Leo’s mother was an honor and a privilege. In memory of his son, Tanner has since honored him with a tattoo, forever etched on his ribcage.

This devastating experience serves as a reminder of the profound love parents have for their children, even in the face of unimaginable loss. For more insights on parenting and coping with similar situations, check out this article on home insemination, and learn more about the process of preparing for parenthood at Make a Mom.

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In summary, this touching narrative illustrates the heart-wrenching choices parents must sometimes make when faced with severe health challenges. Tanner’s commitment to ensuring his son experienced joy and love in his short life resonates deeply, reminding us of the importance of cherishing every moment.

Keyphrase: Nick Tanner Decision Not to Treat Son

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