Tatum Demontmorency, a 19-year-old volleyball enthusiast from Bakersfield, California, faced a life-altering crisis just over two years ago. She began experiencing weakness, fatigue, and unexplained pain, which led to multiple visits to urgent care with no answers. Eventually, Tatum was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a rare and aggressive form of leukemia. Her AML was further complicated by being of the “mixed lineage” variety, making treatment more challenging. However, Tatum’s journey took a positive turn when she arrived at City of Hope, a cancer facility in Los Angeles.
At City of Hope, Tatum participated in a clinical trial for a targeted therapy drug that specifically targeted her form of leukemia. The drug disrupted the menin protein activated in her condition, effectively treating her cancer. The trial allowed Tatum to achieve remission, and she subsequently underwent a successful stem cell transplant, with her younger brother, Trey, as the donor. Tatum’s remarkable recovery was made possible by the expertise and personalized care provided by City of Hope, where a multidisciplinary team of specialists worked together to develop a tailored treatment plan. Tatum’s journey serves as a testament to the importance of individualized care and the potential of clinical trials in improving outcomes for cancer patients.
City of Hope’s Children’s Cancer Center offers world-class, personalized care for pediatric and young adult patients. The center’s multidisciplinary team provides access to leading-edge treatments, including stem cell and bone marrow transplantation programs, as well as the latest clinical trials. Their commitment to tailoring care for each patient ensures that children like Tatum receive the best possible treatment and support. Tatum and her family are grateful to everyone at City of Hope for their expertise, care, and support throughout her challenging journey.
