February 27, 2025, 7:06 pm | Read time: 6 minutes
The Wilms tumor is a rare condition but is among the most common kidney tumors in children–especially in those under five years old. The dangerous aspect of the tumor: It often grows quickly and without specific symptoms. Samantha Alfonso’s son Damiano had his right kidney affected, which had to be surgically removed after the diagnosis.
Today, two years later, Samantha can finally breathe a sigh of relief–her son Damiano has beaten the tumor. The diagnosis and treatment of her son have significantly impacted her daily life, but she has learned a lot from it. She shared with FITBOOK editor Julia Freiberger how she experienced this difficult time, which decisions were the hardest for her, and what advice she would give to other parents in similar situations.
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“Moment of Diagnosis Etched Deeply into Memory”
FITBOOK: How did you experience the moment when you learned that your child had a Wilms tumor?
Samantha Alfonso: “I immediately knew that I would do everything to support my child in the best possible way–without getting distracted, even though I had to manage my school at the same time. When I heard the diagnosis ‘Wilms tumor,’ I was with my son during the ultrasound. The doctor first explained the findings to his assistant doctor in a factual tone full of technical terms, as if it were a routine discovery. Only then did he address me–while I was in the room the whole time. This moment is etched deeply into my memory.”
What was your greatest fear during this time? Was there a moment when you thought, ‘I can’t go on’–and what helped you to keep going?
“Everyone has fears in such a situation. There were many moments when I thought I couldn’t go on. But my son was incredibly strong–he had no fear, no pain. His lightheartedness helped me to keep going.”
Also interesting: Eye cancer in children–a noticeable sign indicates the disease
When the Belly Grew, No One Suspected It Was Cancer
When did you first notice that something was wrong with your child?
“The first and only symptoms appeared on November 6, 2023: His belly became noticeably thicker. The first doctor we visited thought it was a harmless constipation. But when it got worse after three days, we went back. This time, we were told to go to the hospital immediately.”
How long did it take from the first signs to the final diagnosis?
“It was clear from the beginning that it was a tumor. The diagnosis was made on the very day we were admitted to the hospital.”
Was there a decision during the treatment that was particularly difficult for you? How did you handle it?
“Not really–I did everything that was best for my child’s well-being. One decision was challenging, though: Where should Damiano be operated on? The doctors recommended the University Hospital Tübingen because a specialist works there. I knew it was the right choice, but I still discussed it with my closest confidants, especially my mother. Initially, she had concerns because she couldn’t accompany me and was afraid. But in the end, I was able to convince her.”
Typically, the treatment of children with kidney tumors at the University Hospital Tübingen follows standardized procedures based on the study protocol of the “SIOP Renal Tumor Study Group.” Children with Wilms tumors often receive chemotherapy first. The response to this therapy and the imaging diagnostics after treatment provide crucial information for the tumor’s risk assessment. This is followed by the surgical removal of the tumor–just as it was with Damiano.1
How did your child experience the time in the hospital? Were there rituals or special moments that helped make everyday life more bearable?
“Damiano behaved–given the circumstances–quite normally. We played a lot and tried to make the hospital routine feel like we were at home. There were no special rituals, but our time together helped him.”
“School Didn’t Make It Easy for Me”
How did the illness change your daily life and family? What was particularly difficult–and were there any positive changes?
“The daily life after the hospital admission was very exhausting. Every two to three days, we had to go to the day clinic for examinations, chemotherapy, and doctor consultations. It was particularly difficult for me because I was attending school at the same time–and the school didn’t make it easy for me. But I got through it.”
What help–from doctors, psychologists, family, or friends–was most important to you?
“My mother was always by my side, and I am infinitely grateful to her. Of course, also to my family, but she was my greatest support. Many offers of help were made to me, but most didn’t really contribute much.”
How did the insurance coverage work? Were there any unexpected challenges or hurdles?
“Fortunately, there was staff at the hospital who supported us with such matters–for example, with the reimbursement of travel expenses or the care allowance, which we hardly received.”
“This Is Not a Normal Developmental Delay”
He was just a few weeks old when he was diagnosed with eye cancer.
“I Realized Too Late How Important Small Breaks Are”
Was there something that no one told you, but would have been incredibly important? What information or support would you have wished for?
“I wish someone had told me how important it is to take small breaks for yourself–even just for a few hours to sort things out. I realized this far too late for myself. It’s perfectly okay to take time for yourself and not think about the hospital or examinations for a moment.”
“Trust Your Instincts and Persevere”
How is your child today? What has changed since the illness–and what would you say to parents who are just starting this journey?
“Damiano is doing very well today. He is a happy, playful–and sometimes charmingly sulky–little boy. Not much has changed, except that we have become more cautious and have to attend regular doctor’s appointments. To parents who are just facing this diagnosis, I would say: Trust your instincts! During the treatment, it sometimes felt like slow motion–and suddenly time was racing. Persevere! And don’t be disappointed if some friends or family members don’t keep their promises. Focus on those who are truly by your side.”