A Toddler’s Unexpected Diagnosis
Crew, an Ohio toddler, came down with the flu last year. His symptoms didn’t improve over time, raising medical concerns. After undergoing imaging tests, doctors discovered a serious underlying condition.
At just 11 months old, Crew was diagnosed with an enlarged liver containing a cancerous mass in his abdominal area. This challenging discovery set his family on a difficult medical journey.
The Path to a Transplant
In March 2025, Crew received a formal diagnosis of a rare liver cancer. The source did not provide details about the specific type of cancer identified.
Following this diagnosis, he underwent multiple rounds of aggressive chemotherapy to combat the disease. Medical professionals indicated that Crew might need a liver transplant as part of his treatment plan, introducing new complexity to his care.
A Family’s Willing Donor
Crew’s aunt, Taylor Dearth, wanted to help him if possible. As a mother of three balancing her own family responsibilities, she offered to be tested as a potential donor.
Doctors determined that Taylor Dearth was a perfect match for Crew, providing a critical opportunity for the transplant to proceed. With medical guidance, the family decided to move forward with the planned surgery.
Undergoing Transplant Surgery
Both aunt and nephew underwent transplant surgery at the end of June 2025. Crew received the transplant as part of his treatment for the rare liver cancer.
Crew’s surgery was more intense than Taylor Dearth’s procedure, reflecting its complexity. The medical team carefully managed both operations, and Crew showed positive initial recovery signs afterward.
Celebrating a Milestone
In October 2025, two-year-old Crew rang the bravery bell at Cleveland Clinic Children’s to mark the end of his cancer treatment. This emotional milestone was captured in a video shared with Storyful.
The ceremony symbolized the completion of his intensive medical interventions and represented hope and resilience after a challenging period for the family.
Looking to the Future
Crew no longer needs any treatment and is thriving after receiving the liver transplant from his aunt. His recovery continues to be monitored by healthcare professionals.
This story highlights the importance of organ donation and familial support in medical crises. Readers should consult healthcare professionals for any medical concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cancer did 2-year-old Crew have and how was it discovered?
Crew was diagnosed with a rare liver cancer in March 2025. Doctors discovered an enlarged liver with a cancerous mass in his abdominal area after he came down with the flu and his symptoms didn’t improve, leading to imaging tests.
Who donated the liver to Crew and when did the transplant surgery happen?
Crew’s aunt, Taylor Dearth, donated part of her liver to him. Both underwent transplant surgery at the end of June 2025 after doctors determined she was a perfect match.
How is Crew doing now after his cancer treatment and transplant?
Crew is thriving and no longer needs any treatment. In October 2025, he and his family rang the bravery bell at Cleveland Clinic Children’s to mark the end of his treatment, and he was doing well after surgery.
