Zaiya was diagnosed with leukemia on April 13, 2023. In the weeks leading up to her diagnosis, her family noticed that she wasn’t quite herself. She had less energy, wanted to be held more often, and took longer naps than usual. She would sit on the floor to play instead of running around, and her skin had taken on a yellow, washed-out tone. Her parents trusted their instincts and sought answers, and thankfully, they got her to the hospital just in time. Her hemoglobin was dangerously low at a level of two and still dropping.
Since her diagnosis, Zaiya has undergone numerous treatments including lumbar punctures, IV chemotherapy, oral chemo daily, physical therapy, and surgery to place her port. In the beginning, there were many hospital stays and isolating days at home due to low counts or fevers. At the same time, her family was adjusting to life with a six-month-old baby. Zaiya’s mom had to leave work, and finances became a challenge. Their world shrank down to hospital rooms and waiting areas. But through it all, Zaiya has grown stronger each day.
This journey came just months after the family lost an uncle to cancer. The back-to-back trauma sent everyone into shock. It was a heartbreaking and emotional time, and yet their close-knit family banded together with love and support. They missed holidays and family gatherings, and Zaiya’s mom carried the weight of coordinating care and doing her best to soften the difficult moments. Though the emotional recovery is ongoing, their hearts are full of gratitude. Zaiya is alive, thriving, and surrounded by love.
Zaiya is truly one of a kind. She is a natural friend to everyone she meets. On the playground, she’ll ask, “I wonder what new friends I’ll make today?” She has a gift for spotting kids who are alone and bringing them into the fun. She’s smart, curious, and welcoming, with a vibrant personality that shines everywhere she goes. Zaiya loves superheroes like the X-Men and enjoys acting out scenes from Moana and Frozen. She loves playing outside, dancing for no reason, and soon she’ll be learning to play soccer. She’s also a loving big sister, even when her little brother gets into her toys.
Her mom says this journey would have looked very different if Zaiya weren’t the kind, compassionate, curious, and social child she is. Her strength and spirit inspire everyone around her. She’s not just surviving, she’s helping others find the courage to keep going too.
Hope session by Becky Gardner Memories | Facebook