Santiago Huertas was first diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), at the age of fourteen. Doctors immediately started chemotherapy treatment, at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami Florida. While undergoing treatment, led by Oncologist Dr. Julio Barredo, Dr. Martin Andreaski, and Dr. Zyza, it was discovered that he was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Three percent of the population in the United States is diagnosed with both types of leukemia. There is still no cure or treatment. The team of doctors suggested a bone marrow transplant. Matching immediately with his older brother, Nicolas Huertas, the transplant was a success on March 4, 2013. Santiago was discharged and in remission for a year and a half. In August of 2014 Santiago got news that the leukemia had returned. Being readmitted they started the process for a second bone marrow from a non-related donor. This time undergoing a higher dosage of chemotherapy and trying their chances with radiation. Dec 11, 2014, Santiago received the second bone marrow transplant without complications and was released the following month. Having been in remission for the following three months, after a routine bone marrow aspiration, he was informed that he had relapsed once again. The doctors could no longer recommend treatment option but rather advised Santiago and his family to relax and enjoy this time together.
Santiago Huertas has a passion the musical arts. For over 8 years, he has played the piano competitively and participated in Hialeah Gardens High School band. He also has a passion for playing the acoustic guitar and percussion. Santiago enjoys sports such as soccer and basketball, as a native of Miami, enjoys the outdoors and recreational water sports. Through music and sports, Santiago has a growing interest to travel and explore the different cultures of the world. He hopes to pursue an education in philosophy, sociology, and anthropology.
Our goal is to raise as much money possible to help relieve his parents with some of the financial burden, so that they can focus on Santi and his on going fight with leukemia.
We ask you to keep Santi in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your kindness and generosity on behalf of the Huertas family.
Carnival of Venice by Santiago Huertas http://youtu.be/0jurRkpFgDM
