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Akron Hospital Sues to Continue Chemo Treatments for 10-year-old Girl

After one round of chemo at Akron Children’s Hospital in June, the family stopped treatment because the side effects were so bad. They say they’re pursuing a program of natural herbs and vitamins.

In July, a local judge blocked the hospital’s request to allow an attorney -- who’s also a registered nurse -- to make medical decisions for the girl.

Akron Children’s is appealing and expects a decision next week. Spokesman Robert McGregor says time is of the essence, as the cancer was treatable when the girl was first diagnosed.

“She should have an 85-plus percent chance of survival. Without treatment, it’s uniformly fatal.”

The judge’s ruling says a guardian can only be appointed if the girl’s parents are deemed unfit.

Nick Castele was a senior reporter covering politics and government for Ideastream Public Media. He worked as a reporter for Ideastream from 2012-2022.