Jackson’s personality is as bright and sweet as ever. He loves all kinds of trucks, trains, and construction equipment. His favorite activity is driving his electric truck outside. He’s also a loving big brother to Isabelle and adores his dog, Buzz. Jackson’s resilience and cheerful spirit bring so much joy to our family every single day.
In February 2020, at just 19 months old, Jackson was diagnosed with cancer. Before his diagnosis, he experienced persistent high fevers, lethargy, and sadness, which led us to visit the pediatrician three times in two weeks. One alarming moment was when he lightly bumped his head on a door jamb and immediately bruised. Shortly after, a rash appeared all over his body, which turned out to be petechiae—a symptom that ultimately led to his diagnosis.
Since then, Jackson has undergone extensive treatments, including over a dozen lumbar punctures for chemotherapy, countless IV chemo infusions, and over a year of oral chemotherapy at home. He also takes steroids every three months. To protect his health, we’ve had to hire a nanny to avoid exposing him to other children and illnesses, which has created financial challenges.
Jackson’s diagnosis has profoundly impacted our family. When we received the news, I was 27 weeks pregnant with his sister Isabelle, which brought unexpected challenges during an already significant life change. Despite this, our family has grown closer during these incredibly tough two years, and we are eagerly anticipating the end of Jackson’s treatment in May 2024.
In November 2022, our daughter Luciana was diagnosed with cancer after experiencing left-side pain and blood in her urine, which led us to the ER. Despite her diagnosis, she has no significant physical limitations.
Her treatment has included chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. These medical challenges have taken a toll on our family, especially financially. Her brother has developed anxiety due to the stress of her illness, and as a family, we’ve faced numerous emotional and practical struggles.
Our daughter is a vibrant, fun-loving spirit who embraces life with enthusiasm. She has a passion for dance, arts and crafts, and cheering. She also enjoys shopping and experimenting with makeup, always finding ways to express her creativity and joy.
Throughout her journey, she has remained incredibly positive, forming meaningful friendships with others going through similar experiences. She not only receives support but offers it in return, embodying resilience and kindness.
Our son, Aamir, is outgoing and has a wide range of interests. He loves gaming on his PS5, with Fortnite and Spider-Man being his favorites. He enjoys fishing, cooking, and riding both electric and gas-powered toys. He has a curious mind, always eager to learn how things work and explore creating new things. His resilience and enthusiasm shine through even during tough times.
On May 10, 2023, our son was diagnosed with cancer. Before his diagnosis, he experienced fatigue, chest pains, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and a change in skin pigmentation. Despite his condition, he currently has no major limitations.
His treatment journey has included chemotherapy, a chest tube, a feeding tube, bone marrow biopsies, and lumbar punctures. While navigating these treatments, we occasionally face challenges helping him move around, participate in family activities, and manage eating difficulties and “chemo brain.” Financial insecurities have also added to the struggles.
Our family life has changed drastically. We’ve shifted from traveling and attending events with confidence to being more cautious and alert about our surroundings. We’ve also adjusted our eating habits and face financial challenges while frequently traveling for treatments.
Sophia has a vibrant and joyful personality, finding laughter in jokes and delight in creative activities. She loves swimming, dancing, anything musical, dressing up, baking, and crafting. Her favorite things include mermaids, princesses, and fairies, which spark her imagination and bring her joy.
On September 5, 2024, our daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. Before her diagnosis, she began experiencing pain in her legs, which we initially thought was growing pains. The pain shifted to the back of her knee, causing her to limp. Concerned about a possible knee injury, we scheduled a doctor’s appointment, only to discover it was leukemia.
Currently, she has no major limitations but will soon begin wearing a backpack for treatment in November. Her journey so far has included a bone marrow biopsy, two lumbar punctures, lab work, chemotherapy, and medications. Adapting to this new reality has been a challenge as we work to create a safe environment for her at home while also caring for her healthy 2.5-year-old sibling.
Our family life has significantly changed. We are now living a more isolated “bubble life,” similar to the precautions taken during COVID-19, to minimize exposure risks. We’ve limited visitors in our home, and our daughter is no longer attending 4K, with her activities adjusted to avoid crowded settings.
Caspian is a bright, curious, and joyful little boy with a love for cars—especially Hot Wheels, which he takes everywhere. His best friend is a dragon stuffed animal named Georgie. Incredibly intelligent, he began reading at just 2.5 years old and will be turning four in October. Caspian can read anything you give him and asks thoughtful questions to fully understand what he reads. He also enjoys singing, dancing, and spreading smiles with his vibrant personality.
Caspian was diagnosed with cancer in December 2022. Leading up to his diagnosis, he experienced a constant fever, bone pain, and lethargy. Due to his condition, he avoids big crowds because he’s immunocompromised. He also tires easily and occasionally feels nauseated.
His treatment journey has included port placement, regular lumbar punctures, various types of chemotherapy, medicines to manage side effects, blood transfusions, and numerous tests. These treatments have been tough on Caspian and his family. His mom took a year off work to care for him, and while she recently returned, adjusting has been challenging. Their lives have been turned upside down, filled with hospital trips, stress, and trauma, profoundly altering their outlook on life.
Through it all, Caspian has shown immense bravery during treatment. He adores his nurses and doctors, who have been a big part of his journey. His resilience and courage inspire everyone around him.
Marshall is “cheeky” and sweet with a hint of mischief. Funny stories or funny cat videos make him laugh. Marshall’s favorite thing and special interest is trains and have been since he was a year old.
He was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma on July 19th, 2024. Before his diagnosis, he complained about leg pain for a couple of days at a time for a few weeks.
In many ways, the uncertainty, stress, and depression of not knowing what is going to happen has been the hardest part. Also, Marshall used to go to an autism center which was very school-like and that changed abruptly for him which was hard.
