They Removed Half His Brain to Save His Life — Gabriel’s Story

Why It Matters

Gabriel’s recovery demonstrates how timely access to specialized neurosurgery can halt a fatal pediatric epilepsy, prompting hospitals and donors to prioritize resources for rare neurological disorders.

Key Takeaways

• Gabriel diagnosed with Rasmussen encephalitis after misdiagnosis in Puerto Rico.
• Hemisphere‑disconnect surgery halted seizures, requiring extensive rehabilitation for him.
• Cincinnati Children’s provided specialized care and comprehensive family support.
• Family’s donation campaign funds equipment and future pediatric treatments.
• Success story underscores need for early referral to specialized centers.

Summary

Gabriel, a healthy infant from Puerto Rico, began experiencing seizures at age six. After local doctors only identified epilepsy, his family sought a second opinion in the United States, where specialists diagnosed him with Rasmussen encephalitis—a rare, progressive brain disorder with no effective medication.

The only curative option was a functional hemispherectomy, a surgery that disconnects the affected brain hemisphere. Post‑operation, Gabriel has been seizure‑free, but the procedure required intensive speech, occupational and physical therapy to regain function on his right side.

His parents, Karla and Rafael, credit Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for the life‑saving care and now advocate for donations, emphasizing that contributions fund critical equipment and future treatments for children facing similar diagnoses.

The case highlights the urgency of early referral to specialized neurological centers, the transformative impact of advanced pediatric neurosurgery, and the role of community support in sustaining cutting‑edge pediatric care.

Original Description

Gabriel was a healthy, active child—until seizures changed everything.

He was diagnosed with Rasmussen encephalitis, a rare and serious neurological condition that causes inflammation in one side of the brain and can lead to severe seizures and loss of function. For Gabriel, the only path forward was a life-saving procedure: hemispherectomy surgery, removing half of his brain.

In this powerful patient story, follow Gabriel and his family through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery—and see how expert care, research, and resilience came together to give him a future.

At Cincinnati Children’s, we specialize in treating complex neurological conditions like Rasmussen encephalitis, combining advanced surgical techniques with compassionate, family-centered care.

Because we don’t just treat conditions—we help kids get back to being kids.

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📍 Learn more about neurological care at Cincinnati Children’s: https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/service/m/multiple-sclerosis-neuroimmunology/conditions

00:00 Meet Gabe’s Family

00:13 Seizures Begin at Six

00:22 Searching for Answers

00:52 Cincinnati Diagnosis

01:11 Life Changing Surgery

01:27 Therapy and Recovery

01:39 A New Home in Cincinnati

01:55 Giving Back to the Hospital

02:19 Gratitude and Pride

02:25 Why Donations Matter

02:49 Hope for OtherFamilies

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