New Dad Receives Health Update Following a Diagnosis of Incurable Cancer
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Maggie Hanratty was anticipating the joy of welcoming her first child with her husband, Eddie Hanratty when their lives took an unexpected turn. Eddie, aged 30 at the time, was diagnosed with a grade 3 astrocytoma – a fast-growing malignant brain tumor. The couple shared that the tumor, measuring 7.3 centimeters – roughly the size of an orange, required intensive surgery while Maggie was 34 weeks pregnant. The news of Eddie’s diagnosis came as a shock to the couple, with Maggie initially unable to process the sudden shift in their lives.
A week following the MRI, Eddie underwent a craniotomy, a complex surgical procedure that involved the removal of a part of his skull to access the brain. The surgery also required the removal of a section of Eddie’s frontal lobe. Despite the extensive procedure, doctors successfully removed about 98% of the tumor. Maggie recalls the relief she felt when Eddie woke up after the surgery still being the same person. The couple was cautioned, however, that the surgery might have lasting effects on Eddie’s personality and behavior.
Post-surgery, Eddie, now 32 years old, was given a prognosis of up to eight years. The couple met with an oncologist who recommended a rigorous treatment plan involving chemotherapy and radiation to ensure the cancer cells were destroyed. After six weeks of combined chemo and radiation, Eddie underwent six months of chemotherapy pills. Maggie, 34, happily disclosed that Eddie completed his treatment in April 2025 and now has stable scans, indicating that the treatment is effectively controlling the cancer without any signs of further spreading.
Despite relatively few side effects during treatment, Eddie now experiences occasional fatigue and nausea as his body continues to recover. The impact on his right frontal lobe has made him more emotional and prone to frustration. Eddie is currently undergoing therapy to manage these emotional changes. Nevertheless, Maggie expresses gratitude that they are still able to lead a positive life and make the most of each day.
Just two weeks post-surgery, Maggie and Eddie welcomed their daughter, Mila, into the world. Today, at 14 months old, Mila is a source of joy and strength for the family. Maggie believes that Mila’s unexpected arrival was serendipitous, as it allowed them to navigate Eddie’s treatment without unnecessary delays. While Eddie continues to undergo regular scans every three months, with the hope of eventually extending them to every six months, Maggie has been using platforms like TikTok to share their journey and raise awareness about astrocytoma.
Through her social media presence, Maggie has found support from a community of individuals facing similar health challenges. By documenting their highs and lows, she aims to inspire others and advocate for better research and funding for rare conditions like astrocytoma. The couple continues to face financial strain from Eddie’s medical expenses, which amount to around $300,000, alongside bills from Maggie’s own medical care. A GoFundMe page set up by Maggie’s sister has been instrumental in easing their financial burdens.
As Eddie focuses on his recovery and ongoing treatment, Maggie remains determined to raise awareness about brain tumors and encourage others to prioritize their health. She urges people, regardless of age or perceived health, to seek medical help if experiencing concerning symptoms. The couple’s resilience and positivity in the face of adversity serve as a beacon of hope for others navigating similar challenges.
In conclusion, the journey of the Hanratty family is a testament to love, strength, and the power of community support in overcoming life’s most daunting obstacles. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing each moment and facing adversity with unwavering determination and optimism.