Little brain tumour patient continues to fight with all his might

Despite facing medical challenges from a very young age, Logan Usher of Atlasville continues to inspire those around him with his resilience.

Logan was diagnosed with a tumour shortly after his second birthday.

Despite a difficult pregnancy, Logan was born a strong and healthy boy. However, his fight for life was far from over.

At just three weeks old, Logan was admitted to Linmed Hospital with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which severely weakened his lungs.

He was then transferred to Arwyp Medical Centre for more specialised care. It was a moment filled with fear for his parents, Tyronne and Lynette.

“At just one-month-old, Logan had to undergo a lumbar puncture because the virus had spread to his brain, causing him to begin having seizures. Logan was in and out of hospital, his immune system and lungs damaged by the virus. Even the slightest change in temperature could cause a relapse,” said Lynette.

Tests
As time passed, things seemed to be improving, but a day before his second birthday on February 6, his parents noticed something was wrong.

“Logan began pulling his shoulders up, as though his neck was sore. Over the following days, his condition worsened. We consulted two general practitioners. One suggested a muscle disorder, while the other thought it might be a middle ear infection or tonsillitis. But nothing seemed to help,” said Lynette.

A few days later, Logan was seen by his paediatrician, Dr Nolwandle Duma, who immediately ordered a series of tests, including blood work, a lumbar puncture and an MRI.

The MRI revealed something devastating – a brain tumour.

Logan’s tumour, measuring five to six centimetres, was aggressive and had grown into his brain and down his spine.

“His neurosurgeon, Dr Sipho Mabaso, explained that due to the size, location, and complexity of the tumour, he would not be able to perform the surgery himself. However, with the support of family member Jeanri Momberg and Dr Thurandrie Naikerand from the Oncology Unit at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town, Logan’s case was referred to Professor Llewellyn Padayachy, a world-renowned paediatric neurosurgeon,” said Lynette.

Logan was transferred to Sandton Mediclinic on February 23, where a CT scan revealed a significant buildup of fluid, causing immense pressure on Logan’s brain.

“This pressure was worsening his symptoms. That same evening, Logan underwent surgery to insert a drain to relieve the pressure and prepare for the upcoming tumour removal surgery. The risks were enormous—brain surgery could result in blood loss, stroke, breathing problems, paralysis, and much more,” said Lynette.

On February 26, Logan underwent a nine-hour surgery.

Confident
“Professor Padayachy and his team, including specialist anaesthetist Dr Tristan Leonard and specialist paediatrician Dr Carice Goossens, worked tirelessly to remove the tumour, and despite the complexity of the procedure, Logan’s surgery was a success.”

On March 1, Logan’s parents were told he would need a second drain replacement as the risk of infection was increasing.

However, seeing how well Logan had been recovering, Padayachy felt confident in removing more of the tumour.

The following afternoon, Logan underwent another operation, where nearly all of the tumour was removed.

“During the procedure, they were able to confirm that the tumour was a grade 2 Ependymoma. Unfortunately, this means Logan will need chemotherapy until he turns three years old, whereafter he will undergo radiation therapy.

“Every step, every breath, every small victory is a testament to Logan’s extraordinary strength and the power of prayer,” said Lynette.

She thanked the doctors, nurses and everyone who has prayed for and supported Logan along the way.

“We give thanks to God for every miracle, big and small and trust that He will continue to guide Logan on his journey to recovery.”

Logan’s family is facing substantial medical expenses.

Anyone who would like to support them may visit www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/logans-journey

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