A toddler in Sandusky, Ohio, is thriving after receiving a life-saving liver transplant from his aunt. Crew Dearth, just 11 months old, was diagnosed in March 2023 with a rare form of liver cancer that had spread to his lungs. His mother, Nicole Dearth, described the moment they received the diagnosis as one that left their family in shock.
“I honestly was in shock. I felt like I couldn’t breathe,” Nicole recalled. “You don’t think your 11-month-old baby is going to have cancer.”
Dr. Stefanie Thomas, Crew’s oncologist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, explained the severity of Crew’s condition. “The tumor was located around important vessels, all the important things that make the liver work,” she said. “There was no way to safely remove that.”
As Crew’s primary caretaker, Nicole initially considered donating part of her liver to save her son. However, the logistics of such a procedure posed significant challenges. Remarkably, another family member stepped in: Crew’s aunt, Taylor Dearth, who was found to be a perfect match.
“I just had this immediate feeling that I wanted to do it for him,” Taylor said. “I just can’t imagine him not here with us because he’s just this little ray of sunshine.”
The transplant procedure took place successfully, and since then, Crew’s health has improved dramatically. “It’s a beautiful thing what Taylor did for him,” Nicole expressed. “To see him thriving and being as healthy as he is because of her, it’s something I’ll never be able to thank her enough for.”
Crew’s story highlights not only the challenges faced by families dealing with childhood cancer but also the importance of organ donation within families. Taylor’s decision to donate her liver exemplifies the profound bond shared among family members and the lengths they will go to ensure each other’s well-being.
As Crew continues to recover, his family remains grateful for the support they have received from medical professionals and the community. Their experience serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength found in familial love during times of crisis.
